Brilliant Gameologists » Sodes http://brilliantgameologists.com Play Like You Have To Mon, 30 Aug 2010 07:08:13 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 en hourly 1 Brilliant Gameologists- Sometimes Licentious Usually controversial Always Edifying. A podcast for tabletop games and the people who play them. Helping you: Play like _you_ have to Play like you _have_ to Play like you have _two_ The show’s primary focus is on role-playing games, but other tabletop games (and much, much more) are discussed as well. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes Meg, Josh, Zeke gm@brilliantgameologists.com gm@brilliantgameologists.com (Meg, Josh, Zeke) Copyright 2010 Brilliant Gameologists Play like you have to gaming, rpg, dungeons and dragons, comedy, humor, games, game, role-playing, D&D, tabletop games, board games Brilliant Gameologists » Sodes http://brilliantgameologists.com/images/bglogorss.jpg http://brilliantgameologists.com/category/sodes/ Sode-304-Doofus and Dyno-mite! (Diplomacy) http://brilliantgameologists.com/doofus/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/doofus/#comments Mon, 30 Aug 2010 07:08:13 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=326

This episode, like all of our episodes, is “Not Safe For Work.” Use headphones or at least look around a bit to see if your co-workers can hear.

Episode Subtitle: We’re swollen with hubris

This episode is a Diplomacy Episode, those which focus on getting along better with your fellow players, GM, and friends.

Doofus Behaviors:

  1. “It’s Someone Else’s problem, I’m the innocent bystander.” (Unblamable)
  2. “You know what we should do – X, You know what we should do – X,You know what we should do – X…” (Harping)
  3. “You’re too slow.  You aren’t playing right. Dumbass.” (Ad honimum attacks)
  4. “You guys all go do that thing I’m doing something else” – (Not me’ing)
  5. “And then what does the taven keeper say? What are all of the 20 stores in this wing of the mall? Describe what every member of the wedding party has on.” (Blocking)
  6. “It’s what my character would do.  I’m bored, I shoot his character in the face.”(Griefing)
  7. “Are we there yet? How long does this take? when is my turn? I never get to go.” (Whinging)
  8. “No(period)” (No)

Dynomite’s Behaviors:

  1. Know the game and use the game
  2. Consider saying yes to things
  3. Be in the game, Don’t play before you play
  4. Have Goals: Player and character
  5. Have fun playing
  6. Play with the other players
  7. Try

Contact us!

  1. Leave a comment here for this episode
  2. Visit the thread about this post on our boards: Brilliantgameologists.com/boards
  3. Email the 3 of us at gm@brilliantgameologists.com (or individually: Meg, Josh or Zeke at brilliantgameologists.com)
  4. Twitter: @bg_meg, @bg_josh, @bg_zeke or our news feed, @bg_podcast
  5. Visit our Facebook page: facebook.com/brililantgameologists
  6. Call us and leave a message (click to see message suggestions) (206) 424-4751
  7. Say hi in person- check out the schedule of where we’ll be appearing under the News Category of our website.
]]> http://brilliantgameologists.com/doofus/feed/ 2 - This episode, like all of our episodes, is “Not Safe For Work.” Use headphones or at least look around a bit to see if your co-workers can hear. - Episode Subtitle: We're swollen with hubris This episode is a Diplomacy Episode, This episode, like all of our episodes, is “Not Safe For Work.” Use headphones or at least look around a bit to see if your co-workers can hear. Episode Subtitle: We're swollen with hubris This episode is a Diplomacy Episode, those which focus on getting along better with your fellow players, GM, and friends. Doofus Behaviors: “It’s Someone Else's problem, I’m the innocent bystander.” (Unblamable) “You know what we should do - X, You know what we should do - X,You know what we should do - X...” (Harping) “You’re too slow.  You aren’t playing right. Dumbass.” (Ad honimum attacks) “You guys all go do that thing I’m doing something else” - (Not me'ing) “And then what does the taven keeper say? What are all of the 20 stores in this wing of the mall? Describe what every member of the wedding party has on.” (Blocking) “It’s what my character would do.  I’m bored, I shoot his character in the face.”(Griefing) “Are we there yet? How long does this take? when is my turn? I never get to go.” (Whinging) “No(period)” (No) Dynomite's Behaviors: Know the game and use the game Consider saying yes to things Be in the game, Don't play before you play Have Goals: Player and character Have fun playing Play with the other players Try Contact us! Leave a comment here for this episode Visit the thread about this post on our boards: Brilliantgameologists.com/boards Email the 3 of us at gm@brilliantgameologists.com (or individually: Meg, Josh or Zeke at brilliantgameologists.com) Twitter: @bg_meg, @bg_josh, @bg_zeke or our news feed, @bg_podcast Visit our Facebook page: facebook.com/brililantgameologists Call us and leave a message (click to see message suggestions) (206) 424-4751 Say hi in person- check out the schedule of where we’ll be appearing under the News Category of our website. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes 50:59 Sode-303-Survey Says! http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-303-survey-says/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-303-survey-says/#comments Sat, 31 Jul 2010 11:39:16 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=223 Meg joins Adam (Podgecast) and Scott (Story Shtick) to discuss the 2010 Gamer Podcast Listener Survey which you can download here:

Podcast Survey Listener Results

Check out Meg’s (and many others) article (and picture!) in the RPGirl Zine here:

RPGirl Zine Project

Meg and Adam will be at GenCon- be sure to come find us!  Twitter us: @bg_meg or @bafadam

Check out our brand new Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/brilliantgameologists

]]> http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-303-survey-says/feed/ 8 podgecast,story shtick,survey Meg joins Adam (Podgecast) and Scott (Story Shtick) to discuss the 2010 Gamer Podcast Listener Survey which you can download here: - Podcast Survey Listener Results - Check out Meg's (and many others) article (and picture! Meg joins Adam (Podgecast) and Scott (Story Shtick) to discuss the 2010 Gamer Podcast Listener Survey which you can download here: Podcast Survey Listener Results Check out Meg's (and many others) article (and picture!) in the RPGirl Zine here: RPGirl Zine Project Meg and Adam will be at GenCon- be sure to come find us!  Twitter us: @bg_meg or @bafadam Check out our brand new Facebook page: www.facebook.com/brilliantgameologists Meg, Josh, Zeke yes 1:33:34 Sode-302-Gamers are Lazy SOBs (BS) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-302-gamers-are-lazy-sobs-bs/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-302-gamers-are-lazy-sobs-bs/#comments Thu, 31 Dec 2009 20:04:34 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=164 This episode was recorded live on November 22, 2009 on ustream.  It is completely unedited except for calling out our intermission and had over 50 people viewing.  There were people in the chatroom contributing ideas as well.

Shoutouts!

BG_Baby aka Valentine was born on Dec 6th and already loves her D&D Board Books

BG_Baby aka Valentine was born on Dec 6th and already loves her D&D Board Books

We’re Thankful!

Laziness

We’re Not Lazy!

We’ve been busy- just not putting out shows.  Going to cons (see our “appearance schedule”!)

Time Saving Techniques

  • Make an outline or to-do list for your game
  • Cut out distractions
    • 10-2 Method- 10 minutes of straight work, then 2 minutes for scheduled goof-off time
  • Eat first.  Schedule Pee.
  • Schedule your big rocks first
  • Plan with a focus group, not everyone
  • Don’t reinvent the wheel
  • Perfect is the enemy of done
  • Doing things right or Doing the right things?
  • Replace the word “time” with “money” when talking about management
    • Replace with Lubricant- too much and too little are both uncomfortable
  • Don’t delegate- empower
  • Steal with both hands

Worth the Time

  • Learning a new system
  • Know your character

Not worth the time

  • Reading the entire book
  • Detailed Maps!
  • Don’t learn every rule- at first
  • Crafting tons of NPC’s

Reminders-

Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

]]> http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-302-gamers-are-lazy-sobs-bs/feed/ 0 lazy,thanks,time savers This episode was recorded live on November 22, 2009 on ustream.  It is completely unedited except for calling out our intermission and had over 50 people viewing.  There were people in the chatroom contributing ideas as well. Shoutouts! This episode was recorded live on November 22, 2009 on ustream.  It is completely unedited except for calling out our intermission and had over 50 people viewing.  There were people in the chatroom contributing ideas as well. Shoutouts! Sasha- Zeke's long distance BFF and host of Den of Iniquity 8-bit Porn: WFT Did I Just Watch?.  Don't watch it. The time-management masters at the Podgecast @BigHeadZach from HeadGames Podcast Mike Selinker- Rocker of the Bolo! We're Thankful! Meg is thankful for podcasts who paved the way: Sons of Kryos Fear the Boot Have Games, Will Travel All Games Considered Josh is thankful for new, awesome games Shock Misspent Youth Savage Worlds Burning Wheel Zeke is thankful for social networking Laziness Not trying new Sometimes good and inspiring NaNoWriMo: National November Writing Month It doesn't need to be perfect, just do it. We're Not Lazy! We've been busy- just not putting out shows.  Going to cons (see our "appearance schedule"!) Time Saving Techniques Make an outline or to-do list for your game Cut out distractions 10-2 Method- 10 minutes of straight work, then 2 minutes for scheduled goof-off time Eat first.  Schedule Pee. Schedule your big rocks first Plan with a focus group, not everyone Don't reinvent the wheel Perfect is the enemy of done Doing things right or Doing the right things? Replace the word "time" with "money" when talking about management Replace with Lubricant- too much and too little are both uncomfortable Don't delegate- empower Steal with both hands Worth the Time Learning a new system Know your character Not worth the time Reading the entire book Detailed Maps! Don't learn every rule- at first Crafting tons of NPC's Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes 1:41:04 Sode-301-The Obama Baby Bump (BS) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-301-the-obama-baby-bump-bs/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-301-the-obama-baby-bump-bs/#comments Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:25:52 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=155 This episode was recorded live on November 18, 2009.  It is completely unedited except for calling out our intermission and had over 90 people viewing.  There were people in the chatroom contributing ideas as well.

Our favorite fat, bearded men

Our favorite fat, bearded men

Shoutouts!

  • Brant- our blamestorm includes him for being too man-pretty and distracting us.
  • Adam- Thank you.  You are officially the BG’s savior.
  • We won the Best Gaming Podcast at the Parsecs!!
  • Epidiah Ravachol: Author of Dread, Time and Temp, Swords without Masters, and overall cool dude.

We’ve been playing:

Fatbeards are ruining the Hobistry

  • Fatbeard self check
  • You might be a fatbeard if…
  • Why they are ruining the hobistry
  • How to avoid fatbeard tendencies

Contest!

Vote on when Meg is going to pop out the 4th Gameologists!

Laziness and Procrastination

We didn’t get to this.  We will have another live episode on Sunday, November 22nd at 8EST to have part 2 of this sode!  Join us to discuss why gamers are inherently lazy and time saving techniques!  We are going to try to have this as a call in episode, so stay tuned for details

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/brilliant-gameologists

Reminders-

Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

]]> http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-301-the-obama-baby-bump-bs/feed/ 5 Adam,Awards,Brant,Dominion,fatbeards,live,Mouse Guard,Parsecs,Word on the Street This episode was recorded live on November 18, 2009.  It is completely unedited except for calling out our intermission and had over 90 people viewing.  There were people in the chatroom contributing ideas as well. - Shoutouts! This episode was recorded live on November 18, 2009.  It is completely unedited except for calling out our intermission and had over 90 people viewing.  There were people in the chatroom contributing ideas as well. Shoutouts! Brant- our blamestorm includes him for being too man-pretty and distracting us. Adam- Thank you.  You are officially the BG's savior. We won the Best Gaming Podcast at the Parsecs!! Epidiah Ravachol: Author of Dread, Time and Temp, Swords without Masters, and overall cool dude. We've been playing: Mouse Guard Dominion Word on the Street Fatbeards are ruining the Hobistry Fatbeard self check You might be a fatbeard if... Why they are ruining the hobistry How to avoid fatbeard tendencies Contest! Vote on when Meg is going to pop out the 4th Gameologists! Laziness and Procrastination We didn't get to this.  We will have another live episode on Sunday, November 22nd at 8EST to have part 2 of this sode!  Join us to discuss why gamers are inherently lazy and time saving techniques!  We are going to try to have this as a call in episode, so stay tuned for details http://www.ustream.tv/channel/brilliant-gameologists Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes 1:26:07 ENnies Voting is Open! http://brilliantgameologists.com/ennies-voting-is-open-we-need-your-support/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/ennies-voting-is-open-we-need-your-support/#comments Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:24:25 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=147 Brilliant Gameologists was nominated for an ENnie. Voting ends on August 1st, so vote now!

http://www.ennie-awards.com/voting/ballot.asp

Best Podcast is category #17.  But if you need some suggestions for other great products (and there are a bunch!) check out our Suggested Ballot.

Please vote, tell your friends, tell your neighbors, and help us spread the word!  Help us and win prizes and help us plan our acceptance speech!

Vote today!

Show: If Elected…

]]> http://brilliantgameologists.com/ennies-voting-is-open-we-need-your-support/feed/ 4 ENnies,vote Brilliant Gameologists was nominated for an ENnie. Voting ends on August 1st, so vote now! - http://www.ennie-awards.com/voting/ballot.asp - Best Podcast is category #17.  But if you need some suggestions for other great products (and there are a bunch! Brilliant Gameologists was nominated for an ENnie. Voting ends on August 1st, so vote now! http://www.ennie-awards.com/voting/ballot.asp Best Podcast is category #17.  But if you need some suggestions for other great products (and there are a bunch!) check out our Suggested Ballot. Please vote, tell your friends, tell your neighbors, and help us spread the word!  Help us and win prizes and help us plan our acceptance speech! Vote today! Show: If Elected... Meg, Josh, Zeke yes Sode – 300 – Brilliant Gameologists Is… http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-300-%e2%80%93-brilliant-gameologists-is/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-300-%e2%80%93-brilliant-gameologists-is/#comments Thu, 09 Jul 2009 04:30:14 +0000 Josh http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=119 This episode is “Not Safe For Work.” Of course none of these episodes are safe for work. If this is your first time listening, congratulations. Anyway, use headphones or at least look around a bit to see if your co workers can hear.

We explain what this podcast is about. We also offer our two major warnings:

  • We use naughty words and describe adult situations
  • This podcast uses “humor”

    • This is not a regular episode. However is a good place to start listening. Listen to this episode first and then one of our regular episodes.

    I) We lead with some warnings.

    Q: Why all the warnings?

    A: Much of the criticism leveled at the show is from people who have not listened. And in fact never will listen because this is not their type of show. Not liking a “type” of show is perfectly natural. But if you would not listen to a comedian, like our patron saint George Carlin, don’t complain that our show is too much like him. Similarly, if you don’t think George Carlin, Lewis Black or Lambchop are funny, you are not going to like this either.

    I am not saying all this to bring you down. I am putting it all out there so you stop bringing other people down.

    II) Then we talk about the podcast, afterschool special style

    The highlights: We are trying to “Build a Community.” Our aim is to bring new people to the hobby, introduce people to new games and to move people along in their understanding of the hobby.

    III) Our Mission statements.

    We sat down and said “here are our goals for our podcast” then we worked with those goals for two years. During that time they grew and evolved. We discovered how important some topics are and how unimportant others are.

    Now we present these topics so you can provide feedback. Are we meeting these goals? Are we not? What could we do better? And so forth.

    Listen to the episode for all the information, but here is a list that summarizes:

    • We are trying to be informative and helpful.
    • We seek to help new gamers and help old gamers branch out.
    • We talk about gaming theories.
    • We want people to get out and play.
    • We focus on adult level game play.
    • We want you to play games well.
    • We want to grow “the” community and “our” community
    • We offer useful honest reviews.
    • We seek to be entertaining.

    Discuss This Episode on Our Board

    Twitter: bg_meg, bg_josh, bg_zeke

    Join our Facebook Group!

    Check out Meg’s Facebook Page!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Music by Uncle Monsterface

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-300-%e2%80%93-brilliant-gameologists-is/feed/ 3 This episode is “Not Safe For Work.” Of course none of these episodes are safe for work. If this is your first time listening, congratulations. Anyway, use headphones or at least look around a bit to see if your co workers can hear. This episode is “Not Safe For Work.” Of course none of these episodes are safe for work. If this is your first time listening, congratulations. Anyway, use headphones or at least look around a bit to see if your co workers can hear. We explain what this podcast is about. We also offer our two major warnings: We use naughty words and describe adult situations This podcast uses “humor” This is not a regular episode. However is a good place to start listening. Listen to this episode first and then one of our regular episodes. I) We lead with some warnings. Q: Why all the warnings? A: Much of the criticism leveled at the show is from people who have not listened. And in fact never will listen because this is not their type of show. Not liking a “type” of show is perfectly natural. But if you would not listen to a comedian, like our patron saint George Carlin, don't complain that our show is too much like him. Similarly, if you don't think George Carlin, Lewis Black or Lambchop are funny, you are not going to like this either. I am not saying all this to bring you down. I am putting it all out there so you stop bringing other people down. II) Then we talk about the podcast, afterschool special style The highlights: We are trying to “Build a Community.” Our aim is to bring new people to the hobby, introduce people to new games and to move people along in their understanding of the hobby. III) Our Mission statements. We sat down and said “here are our goals for our podcast” then we worked with those goals for two years. During that time they grew and evolved. We discovered how important some topics are and how unimportant others are. Now we present these topics so you can provide feedback. Are we meeting these goals? Are we not? What could we do better? And so forth. Listen to the episode for all the information, but here is a list that summarizes: We are trying to be informative and helpful. We seek to help new gamers and help old gamers branch out. We talk about gaming theories. We want people to get out and play. We focus on adult level game play. We want you to play games well. We want to grow “the” community and “our” community We offer useful honest reviews. We seek to be entertaining. Discuss This Episode on Our Board Twitter: bg_meg, bg_josh, bg_zeke Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Music by Uncle Monsterface Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode-The 4th Gameologists’ Daddy Revealed! http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-the-4th-gameologists-daddy-revealed/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-the-4th-gameologists-daddy-revealed/#comments Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:09:51 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=115 We’ve been running a poll on our boards to guess Meg’s baby daddy with interesting results.

    Instead of just posting the answer, we decided to release the answer in .mp3 format.

    So last night, after recording a normal episode, we pushed record and just let the mics catch what we came up with.  Warning- this is completely off the cuff and at times very innappropriate.  It was past midnight and we got loopy.

    At one point we have a Survivor: Podcaster Edition and made up characters based on voices we felt like doing at the time- this is NOT commentary on any of the following people! It is meant to just be completely silly and ridiculous.

    I kept editing light in this- I cut out our laughter and moved some things around to make it more interesting to listen to, but what you’ll hear is basically what we came up with on the spot.

    Podcasters mentioned:

    But the real reason for this bonus clip is NOT to accidentally offend other podcasters, but to make a big announcement about the real Gameologists behind the mics.

    Talk about the new addition to our crew here and the episode here.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-the-4th-gameologists-daddy-revealed/feed/ 4 BG's in Real Life,bonus We've been running a poll on our boards to guess Meg's baby daddy with interesting results. - Instead of just posting the answer, we decided to release the answer in .mp3 format. - So last night, after recording a normal episode, We've been running a poll on our boards to guess Meg's baby daddy with interesting results. Instead of just posting the answer, we decided to release the answer in .mp3 format. So last night, after recording a normal episode, we pushed record and just let the mics catch what we came up with.  Warning- this is completely off the cuff and at times very innappropriate.  It was past midnight and we got loopy. At one point we have a Survivor: Podcaster Edition and made up characters based on voices we felt like doing at the time- this is NOT commentary on any of the following people! It is meant to just be completely silly and ridiculous. I kept editing light in this- I cut out our laughter and moved some things around to make it more interesting to listen to, but what you'll hear is basically what we came up with on the spot. Podcasters mentioned: TrapCast Jen and Sara Adam from the Podgecast Bearswarm Rob Sean from Narrative Control Robert Bohl from Independent Insurgency But the real reason for this bonus clip is NOT to accidentally offend other podcasters, but to make a big announcement about the real Gameologists behind the mics. Talk about the new addition to our crew here and the episode here. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Origins Lightning Round http://brilliantgameologists.com/origins-lightning-round/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/origins-lightning-round/#comments Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:37:04 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=110 Nominees for the 35th Annual Origins Awards

    If we convince you to buy some of the excellent choices below, why not order from Myriad Games- our partner Friendly Local Game Store.  You’ll get a great game and we’ll get some product to give away as prizes!

    BOARD GAMES

    Agricola
    Z-Man Games, Inc.
    Uwe Rosenberg

    Ninja vs. Ninja
    Out of the Box Publishing
    Tushar Gheewala

    Pandemic
    Z-Man Games, Inc.
    Matt Leacock

    TOMB
    Alderac Entertainment Group
    John Zinser

    Wealth of Nations
    TableStar Games
    Nico Carroll

    CHILDREN’S, FAMILY, AND PARTY GAMES

    Backseat Drawing
    Out of the Box Publishing
    Peggy Brown

    duck! duck! Go!
    APE Games
    Kevin G. Nunn

    Extraordinary Adventures of Baron Munchausen, The
    Mongoose Publishing
    James Wallis

    Living Labyrinth
    Bucephalus Games
    Julie Haehn

    Rorschach: The Inkbot Party Game
    Bucephalus Games
    Dan Tibbles, Jeremy Holcomb, Joe Huber, and Stephen McLaughlin

    Say Anything
    North Star Games
    Dominic Craphuchettes and Satish Pillalamarri

    CARD GAMES

    Dominion
    Rio Grande Games
    Donald X Vaccarino

    Monty Python Fluxx
    Looney Labs
    Andrew Looney

    Red Dragon Inn 2
    Slugfest Games
    Geoff Bottone, Colleen Skadl, and Cliff Bohm

    Ticket to Ride Card Game
    Days of Wonder
    Alan R. Moon

    Trailer Park Wars
    Gut Bustin’ Games
    Lisa Steenson

    NON-FICTION

    KOBOLD Guide to Game Design, Vol. 1
    by Wolfgang Baur, Nicolas Logue
    Open Design

    Lost Leaves From the Inn of the Last Home
    by Margaret Weis
    Margaret Weis Productions

    No Quarter Magazine
    editor-in-chief Nathan Letsinger
    Privateer Press

    Things We Think About Games
    by Will Hindmarch & Jeff Tidball
    Gameplaywright Press

    Tour de Lovecraft: the Tale
    by Ken Hite
    Atomic Overmind Press

    MINIATURE FIGURE GAME RULES/ MINIATURE FIGURE OR LINE OF MINIATURE FIGURES

    Monsterpocalypse Collectible Miniature Game
    Privateer Press, Inc.
    Matt Wilson, Bryan Cutler, Jason Soles, Rob Stoddard, and Kevin Clark

    ROLE-PLAYING GAMES

    CthulhuTech
    Catalyst Game Labs
    Matthew Grau, Fraser McKay, and Mike Vaillancourt

    Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition Players Handbook
    Wizards of the Coast
    Rob Heinsoo, Andy Collins, and James Wyatt

    Mouseguard Role-Playing Game
    Archaia Studios Press
    Luke Crane and David Petersen

    Star Wars Saga Edition Core Rulebook
    Wizards of the Coast
    Chris Perkins, Owen K.C. Stephens, and Rodney Thompson

    Trail of Cthulhu
    Pelgrane Press Ltd
    Kenneth Hite, Robin D Laws, Jerome Huegenin, and Simon Rogers

    More Information

    Full list of nominees can be found HERE.

    Contests!

    We have some of these games to give away as prizes!

    Contest #1: Post about your experience with any of the games we talk about or help review a game we didn’t see (200 words or more) and you’ll be entered into a drawing!

    Linkages:

    How dry do you want it?

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/origins-lightning-round/feed/ 3 Nominees for the 35th Annual Origins Awards If we convince you to buy some of the excellent choices below, why not order from Myriad Games- our partner Friendly Local Game Store.  You'll get a great game and we'll get some product to give away as prizes! Nominees for the 35th Annual Origins Awards If we convince you to buy some of the excellent choices below, why not order from Myriad Games- our partner Friendly Local Game Store.  You'll get a great game and we'll get some product to give away as prizes! BOARD GAMES Agricola Z-Man Games, Inc. Uwe Rosenberg Ninja vs. Ninja Out of the Box Publishing Tushar Gheewala Pandemic Z-Man Games, Inc. Matt Leacock TOMB Alderac Entertainment Group John Zinser Wealth of Nations TableStar Games Nico Carroll CHILDREN’S, FAMILY, AND PARTY GAMES Backseat Drawing Out of the Box Publishing Peggy Brown duck! duck! Go! APE Games Kevin G. Nunn Extraordinary Adventures of Baron Munchausen, The Mongoose Publishing James Wallis Living Labyrinth Bucephalus Games Julie Haehn Rorschach: The Inkbot Party Game Bucephalus Games Dan Tibbles, Jeremy Holcomb, Joe Huber, and Stephen McLaughlin Say Anything North Star Games Dominic Craphuchettes and Satish Pillalamarri CARD GAMES Dominion Rio Grande Games Donald X Vaccarino Monty Python Fluxx Looney Labs Andrew Looney Red Dragon Inn 2 Slugfest Games Geoff Bottone, Colleen Skadl, and Cliff Bohm Ticket to Ride Card Game Days of Wonder Alan R. Moon Trailer Park Wars Gut Bustin’ Games Lisa Steenson NON-FICTION KOBOLD Guide to Game Design, Vol. 1 by Wolfgang Baur, Nicolas Logue Open Design Lost Leaves From the Inn of the Last Home by Margaret Weis Margaret Weis Productions No Quarter Magazine editor-in-chief Nathan Letsinger Privateer Press Things We Think About Games by Will Hindmarch & Jeff Tidball Gameplaywright Press Tour de Lovecraft: the Tale by Ken Hite Atomic Overmind Press MINIATURE FIGURE GAME RULES/ MINIATURE FIGURE OR LINE OF MINIATURE FIGURES Monsterpocalypse Collectible Miniature Game Privateer Press, Inc. Matt Wilson, Bryan Cutler, Jason Soles, Rob Stoddard, and Kevin Clark ROLE-PLAYING GAMES CthulhuTech Catalyst Game Labs Matthew Grau, Fraser McKay, and Mike Vaillancourt Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition Players Handbook Wizards of the Coast Rob Heinsoo, Andy Collins, and James Wyatt Mouseguard Role-Playing Game Archaia Studios Press Luke Crane and David Petersen Star Wars Saga Edition Core Rulebook Wizards of the Coast Chris Perkins, Owen K.C. Stephens, and Rodney Thompson Trail of Cthulhu Pelgrane Press Ltd Kenneth Hite, Robin D Laws, Jerome Huegenin, and Simon Rogers More Information Full list of nominees can be found HERE. Contests! We have some of these games to give away as prizes! Contest #1: Post about your experience with any of the games we talk about or help review a game we didn't see (200 words or more) and you'll be entered into a drawing! Linkages: How dry do you want it? Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Season 3 Teaser http://brilliantgameologists.com/season-3-teaser/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/season-3-teaser/#comments Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:39:44 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=102 We decided to release a little teaser as to whats in store for season 3.  Just to whet your appetite.

    Some additional teasers

    • This is the last episode with music from the podsafe music whatchamacallit (www.podshow.com)
    • Pictures of the Gameologists will be released into the wild.
    • There is footage of bgzeke playing the traditional Irish nipple-banjo
    • No one knows why they call it a clam.  But there is a reason.
    • We are finally releasing episode 0.
    • We will be releasing an episode on GMing, Jiffycon and the Origins awards ASAP
    • We will be releasing shitloads of reviews even ASAPier
    • Major format changes with lots of format stays the same.
    • Big changes on the website, Big changes on the message boards.

    The Pig has been kicked and the 4th Gameologists is announced.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/season-3-teaser/feed/ 1 easter egg,funny,teaser We decided to release a little teaser as to whats in store for season 3.  Just to whet your appetite. - Some additional teasers - This is the last episode with music from the podsafe music whatchamacallit (www.podshow. We decided to release a little teaser as to whats in store for season 3.  Just to whet your appetite. Some additional teasers This is the last episode with music from the podsafe music whatchamacallit (www.podshow.com) Pictures of the Gameologists will be released into the wild. There is footage of bgzeke playing the traditional Irish nipple-banjo No one knows why they call it a clam.  But there is a reason. We are finally releasing episode 0. We will be releasing an episode on GMing, Jiffycon and the Origins awards ASAP We will be releasing shitloads of reviews even ASAPier Major format changes with lots of format stays the same. Big changes on the website, Big changes on the message boards. The Pig has been kicked and the 4th Gameologists is announced. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Meg and Josh on Kicked in the Dicebags (Bonus: Collaboration) http://brilliantgameologists.com/meg-and-josh-on-kicked-in-the-dicebags-bonus-collaboration/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/meg-and-josh-on-kicked-in-the-dicebags-bonus-collaboration/#comments Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:09:03 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=93 Meg and Josh joined the hosts Chris and Jonathan from the newish podcast, Kicked in the Dicebags to talk about:

    • Brief overview of JiffyCon Greenfield on June 6th
    • Is there a “line” when it comes to taste in gaming podcasts?
    • Revisit our “Kicking People Out is a no-no” stance
    • Chris perfectly illustrates why we say this
    • Most people have no balls
    • Feedback we’ve gotten from our 7 Things We Hate episode
    • Enormous respect we have for Sons of Kryos and Paul Tevis
    • How far is too far for each individual show?
    • Meg defines where the line is for Brilliant Gameologists
    • Josh’s opinions on Gaming Networks
    • Meg’s opinions on the “Geek Guys Rule!” show that KitDB did in which the last 20 minutes or so was reacting to the roundtable she joined with Geek Girls Rule Part 1 and Part 2
    • Gaming cons cross as a venue for costumes, minature painting, and kink
    • Women in RPG’s is ok- why so few minorities?
    • BG upcoming Season 3 sneak peak! (Announcement!!)
    • Our porn preferences
    • Lots of masturbation talk
    • Josh, why DO they call it a clam??
    • Justification for making fun of certain groups
    • Is Josh an asshole?
    • DragonCon vs. GenCon
    • Meg can’t go to DragonCon
    • BG panels at GenCon ‘09
    • Magical Bum Adventures at GenCon
    • Meeting people face-to-face- do they live up to expectations?
    • No Picture Policy- abandoning for Season 3
    • Josh’s Twitpict and Meg’s Twitpict
    • Music legality

    This is simply a repost of Kicked in the Dicebag’s show- if you like the freeform, explicit nature, check them out.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/meg-and-josh-on-kicked-in-the-dicebags-bonus-collaboration/feed/ 2 Collaboration,gencon,jiffycon Meg and Josh joined the hosts Chris and Jonathan from the newish podcast, Kicked in the Dicebags to talk about: - Brief overview of JiffyCon Greenfield on June 6th Is there a "line" when it comes to taste in gaming podcasts? Meg and Josh joined the hosts Chris and Jonathan from the newish podcast, Kicked in the Dicebags to talk about: Brief overview of JiffyCon Greenfield on June 6th Is there a "line" when it comes to taste in gaming podcasts? Revisit our "Kicking People Out is a no-no" stance Chris perfectly illustrates why we say this Most people have no balls Feedback we've gotten from our 7 Things We Hate episode Enormous respect we have for Sons of Kryos and Paul Tevis How far is too far for each individual show? Meg defines where the line is for Brilliant Gameologists Josh's opinions on Gaming Networks Meg's opinions on the "Geek Guys Rule!" show that KitDB did in which the last 20 minutes or so was reacting to the roundtable she joined with Geek Girls Rule Part 1 and Part 2 Gaming cons cross as a venue for costumes, minature painting, and kink Women in RPG's is ok- why so few minorities? BG upcoming Season 3 sneak peak! (Announcement!!) Our porn preferences Lots of masturbation talk Josh, why DO they call it a clam?? Justification for making fun of certain groups Is Josh an asshole? DragonCon vs. GenCon Meg can't go to DragonCon BG panels at GenCon '09 Magical Bum Adventures at GenCon Meeting people face-to-face- do they live up to expectations? No Picture Policy- abandoning for Season 3 Josh's Twitpict and Meg's Twitpict Music legality This is simply a repost of Kicked in the Dicebag's show- if you like the freeform, explicit nature, check them out. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #41) Getting the Group Together and Heading Off Problems Before They Start (Don’t Kick People Out Pt 4) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-41-getting-the-group-together-and-heading-off-problems-before-they-start-dont-kick-people-out-pt-4/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-41-getting-the-group-together-and-heading-off-problems-before-they-start-dont-kick-people-out-pt-4/#comments Tue, 19 May 2009 03:44:45 +0000 Josh http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=88 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Linkages!:

    This is our Last episode…

    of the second season

    Getting the Group Together and Heading Off Problems Before They Start

    Favorite Season 2 moment:

    • Josh: They call it a clam, for a reason
    • Zeke: Faux GenCon
    • Meg: Birthday episode and Zeke Orgasms

    Big changes for season 3, Zeke will be nude.

    Walter Cronkite is dead

    Two primary situations:

    1. You have a group
    2. You have a bunch of people to draw a group from

    1) You have a group

    You need:

    • Ideas from everyone
    • Everyone needs to be invested and excited
    • Do not fixate on your own nuance, explicitly discuss it
    • Be open about what means what

    Trust Me

    2) You have a bunch of people to draw a group from

    • Be honest
    • Ask everyone explicitly don’t assume

    low player count,

    • Group then game
    • pick a night(figure out game)

    high player count

    • Game then group
    • pick a game (figure out night)

    Bounce Your Boobies – Bhu

    Zeke likes Songs and fried eggs hanging on a nail

    Holly Dolly – emisairy666

    Holly Dolly is a Donkey From the country who dreamed of being a big star

    Sheeps – Meg’s Aunt

    The only form of pure art remaining, Zeke makes up some names “Rivers Cuomo” “Barak Obama”

    The GM tips

    • You are not the boss of them
    • Do not “dispense wisdom”
    • Be honest open and bring everything to the game
    • No one is just an asshole, they have a reason for what they are doing
    • Don’t say “what do you like?” say “what do you want to do?”
    • As soon as they start fighting with you, even slightly, figure out why. T
    • Try to make sure people know their chances before they roll the dice
    • You want to catch problems before people even know they are problems.
    • You must reduce the complexity of the game to the aggregate of the players.
    • Do not be afraid to change games, mod games or create house rules.
    • Check to be sure you have the game right before you go changing things.
    • Eat the frog

    People don’t like low magic

    • people enjoy the presence of something cool
    • or the absence of an irritant

    Poisonous Ideas

    There is a persistent idea that adventures should hold to a “realistic” or “balanced” framework.
    Adventures ideally should give everyone in the group what they are looking for.
    Anything more is a waste of effort and anything less could be done better.

    You know the adage “if you don’t know, make it up” gets tossed around?
    Don’t listen to them.  Here’s why.
    The people who say that, say it, because that’s what they do and it works.
    Because a)they know the game or b)they don’t care about the rules anyway.
    The first guys are just not expending effort and doing it right anyway
    The second guys suck.

    Cliffhanger

    Trivia:

    Last week’s answer is revealed!

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-41-getting-the-group-together-and-heading-off-problems-before-they-start-dont-kick-people-out-pt-4/feed/ 1 Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Linkages!: This is our Last episode... of the second season Getting the Group Together and Heading Off Problems Before They Start Favorite Season 2 moment: Josh: They call it a clam, for a reason Zeke: Faux GenCon Meg: Birthday episode and Zeke Orgasms Big changes for season 3, Zeke will be nude. Walter Cronkite is dead Two primary situations: You have a group You have a bunch of people to draw a group from 1) You have a group You need: Ideas from everyone Everyone needs to be invested and excited Do not fixate on your own nuance, explicitly discuss it Be open about what means what Trust Me 2) You have a bunch of people to draw a group from Be honest Ask everyone explicitly don't assume low player count, Group then game pick a night(figure out game) high player count Game then group pick a game (figure out night) Bounce Your Boobies - Bhu Zeke likes Songs and fried eggs hanging on a nail Holly Dolly - emisairy666 Holly Dolly is a Donkey From the country who dreamed of being a big star Sheeps - Meg's Aunt The only form of pure art remaining, Zeke makes up some names “Rivers Cuomo” “Barak Obama” The GM tips You are not the boss of them Do not “dispense wisdom” Be honest open and bring everything to the game No one is just an asshole, they have a reason for what they are doing Don't say “what do you like?” say “what do you want to do?” As soon as they start fighting with you, even slightly, figure out why. T Try to make sure people know their chances before they roll the dice You want to catch problems before people even know they are problems. You must reduce the complexity of the game to the aggregate of the players. Do not be afraid to change games, mod games or create house rules. Check to be sure you have the game right before you go changing things. Eat the frog People don't like low magic people enjoy the presence of something cool or the absence of an irritant Poisonous Ideas There is a persistent idea that adventures should hold to a “realistic” or “balanced” framework. Adventures ideally should give everyone in the group what they are looking for. Anything more is a waste of effort and anything less could be done better. You know the adage “if you don't know, make it up” gets tossed around? Don't listen to them.  Here's why. The people who say that, say it, because that's what they do and it works. Because a)they know the game or b)they don't care about the rules anyway. The first guys are just not expending effort and doing it right anyway The second guys suck. Cliffhanger Trivia: Last week's answer is revealed! Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #40 (Bonus 11): I-con with Robert Bohl http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-40-bonus-11-i-con-with-robert-bohl/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-40-bonus-11-i-con-with-robert-bohl/#comments Fri, 01 May 2009 05:12:50 +0000 Josh http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=87 News:

    This week we were joined by

    We discuss our trip to I-con

    Once again Rob joins us to carve Easter pumpkins

    Meg talks dirty (really dirty)

    Meg has Dr Horrible Goggles

    We love Pickles

    We cannot pronounce “Long Island“

    We went to I-con

    Zeke is a Red Sox’s Fan

    Putting a flute in your pussy is not for beginners

    Meg is a Jedi

    Zeke fights with a crusty grognard (who wrote this game “continuum”)

    Girls in Gaming

    Zeke Can Read (but he can’t do math)

    Jess Hartly- Really Great Panelist

    In the future all of our computers will have English accents

    Islandia has a good Hooters

    Folklore in fantasy

    Holly Black – Spiderwick

    Jane Yolen – Many, Many Books

    Nicki Clyne was at the Con, hotter in person.

    “Science Fiction in Education”

    Alex Jakubowski

    Ritch Calvin

    SFRA

    What is the Difference between YA and A?

    The Hunger Games

    Peeps – Scott Westerfeld (I left that in)

    Tithe – Holly Black

    State of The “Industry”

    • If every game company shut down, the hobby would continue along just fine.

    Dr Horrible is awesome (NPH, Call me)

    Gary Gygax was neck deep in shorties and blow.

    Josh has a delicate little girl stomach

    Argentinian Steak House – Sweetbreads are delicious

    “Sexuality in Genre Fiction”

    • Horror is misogynistic

    “7 words you can’t say while gaming”

    • Grace Hsu, sexy elven guest panelist

    Zeke wants to go to the prom

    Holly Black is cool

    She is Rob’s neighbor

    Nipple banjo, you read me correctly

    Gamer Sex Panel

    • Anal sex is not an epic Quest

    Cosplay Burlesque

    Favorites

    Josh – Delerium/Starbuck (Madison)

    Meg and Rob – Penny/Dr Horrible/Amber Sweet (no link)

    Zeke – Mrs the Monarch (no link)

    Our other favorite was the MC James Hatton

    “Reading in the future”

    Jen Crawford (no link)

    Kick Ass Mystic Ninjas

    Panel #3 Secrets of Podcasting – Rob on Fire, Josh very informy

    Summary – Icon was fun, the panelists were excellent, very disorganized

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-40-bonus-11-i-con-with-robert-bohl/feed/ 3 News: This week we were joined by - Rob Bohl - Writer of Misspent Youth and host of Independent Insurgency - We discuss our trip to I-con - Once again Rob joins us to carve Easter pumpkins Meg talks dirty (really dirty) Meg has Dr Horrible Goggles W... News: This week we were joined by Rob Bohl - Writer of Misspent Youth and host of Independent Insurgency We discuss our trip to I-con Once again Rob joins us to carve Easter pumpkins Meg talks dirty (really dirty) Meg has Dr Horrible Goggles We love Pickles We cannot pronounce "Long Island" We went to I-con Zeke is a Red Sox's Fan Putting a flute in your pussy is not for beginners Meg is a Jedi Zeke fights with a crusty grognard (who wrote this game "continuum") Girls in Gaming Zeke Can Read (but he can't do math) Jess Hartly- Really Great Panelist In the future all of our computers will have English accents Islandia has a good Hooters Folklore in fantasy Holly Black – Spiderwick Jane Yolen – Many, Many Books Nicki Clyne was at the Con, hotter in person. “Science Fiction in Education” Alex Jakubowski Ritch Calvin SFRA What is the Difference between YA and A? The Hunger Games Peeps – Scott Westerfeld (I left that in) Tithe - Holly Black State of The "Industry" If every game company shut down, the hobby would continue along just fine. It is the sworn goal of Indie game designers to take food out of the mouths of “real” game designers babies. Dr Horrible is awesome (NPH, Call me) Gary Gygax was neck deep in shorties and blow. Josh has a delicate little girl stomach Argentinian Steak House - Sweetbreads are delicious “Sexuality in Genre Fiction” Horror is misogynistic "7 words you can't say while gaming" Grace Hsu, sexy elven guest panelist Zeke wants to go to the prom Holly Black is cool She is Rob's neighbor Nipple banjo, you read me correctly Gamer Sex Panel Anal sex is not an epic Quest Cosplay Burlesque Favorites Josh – Delerium/Starbuck (Madison) Meg and Rob – Penny/Dr Horrible/Amber Sweet (no link) Zeke – Mrs the Monarch (no link) Our other favorite was the MC James Hatton “Reading in the future” Jen Crawford (no link) Kick Ass Mystic Ninjas Panel #3 Secrets of Podcasting - Rob on Fire, Josh very informy Summary - Icon was fun, the panelists were excellent, very disorganized Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #38) Problem Solving 2: Communication Do’s (Don’t Kick People Out Pt 3) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-38-problem-solving-2-communication-dos-dont-kick-people-out-pt-3/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-38-problem-solving-2-communication-dos-dont-kick-people-out-pt-3/#comments Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:02:00 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=80 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Linkages!:

    Problem Solving #2) The list of Do’s

    • Communication Musts
    • Mediating a problem at the table
    • Solving a problem you’re involved in

    Ideas from the episode:

    Trivia:

    Last week’s answer is revealed! Which one of us had rats as pets?

    This week’s question: Which one of us was once accused of buying a suit for a gorilla?

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-38-problem-solving-2-communication-dos-dont-kick-people-out-pt-3/feed/ 5 advice,communicating,real world advice Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. D&D Song thanks to Irthos Levethix! WTF Camels?? thanks to Bear Swarm Rob! Linkages!: We have some great projects on our Message Boards! Food for Thought Master Thread Zeke once again added to background noise with his pug PJ 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Cognitive Coaching High/Scope Educational Approach Catch Phrase (the game) Zeke loves the movie Rounders Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent.  ~Eleanor Roosevelt Problem Solving #2) The list of Do's Communication Musts Mediating a problem at the table Solving a problem you're involved in Full list available on the Message Board post Ideas from the episode: It is your fault Trivia: Last week's answer is revealed! Which one of us had rats as pets? This week's question: Which one of us was once accused of buying a suit for a gorilla? Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     BG Bonus Podswap Show: Bonus #11 http://brilliantgameologists.com/bg-bonus-podswap-show-bonus-11/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/bg-bonus-podswap-show-bonus-11/#comments Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:37:59 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=83 Last week’s April Fool’s “prank” had us switch shows with Z from Radio Free Hipster.  Since we put out two shows last week, we didn’t do one this week.  But so as not to be complete loosers, here’s a link to the clip show we gave Z.  Mostly old content but there is a little bit of new stuff there too.  A good introduction to what the show Brilliant Gameologists is all about.  Maybe.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/bg-bonus-podswap-show-bonus-11/feed/ 1 Clip Show,Hipster Please! Last week's April Fool's "prank" had us switch shows with Z from Radio Free Hipster.  Since we put out two shows last week, we didn't do one this week.  But so as not to be complete loosers, here's a link to the clip show we gave Z. Last week's April Fool's "prank" had us switch shows with Z from Radio Free Hipster.  Since we put out two shows last week, we didn't do one this week.  But so as not to be complete loosers, here's a link to the clip show we gave Z.  Mostly old content but there is a little bit of new stuff there too.  A good introduction to what the show Brilliant Gameologists is all about.  Maybe. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Radio Free Hipster Ep #64 http://brilliantgameologists.com/radio-free-hipster-ep-64/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/radio-free-hipster-ep-64/#comments Wed, 01 Apr 2009 07:42:38 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=82 In Honor of April Fool’s Day we decided to swap podcasts with Z from “Radio Free Hipster” at HipsterPlease.com

    (here’s the rss feed)

    While Z did not invent drunken podcasting, he did invent drunken podcasting month, endearing him to all BG fans.

    Nerd music shares an important philosophical cornerstone with the gaming community.  Nerd music is a culture of participants.  It is not a passive “turn on the radio and buy the CD.”  In fact the only micro culture I know that has as large a percentage of Producers to Consumers is gaming.

    Nerd music inspires, not just emotion, but action.  Either directly or indirectly.  Directly by making people want to make their own music, raps, or mashups.  And Indirectly by inspiring other nerd activities like computers, zombie survival and fucking.

    Reminders

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/radio-free-hipster-ep-64/feed/ 1 music,swap In Honor of April Fool's Day we decided to swap podcasts with Z from "Radio Free Hipster" at HipsterPlease.com - (here's the rss feed) - While Z did not invent drunken podcasting, he did invent drunken podcasting month, endearing him to all BG fans. In Honor of April Fool's Day we decided to swap podcasts with Z from "Radio Free Hipster" at HipsterPlease.com (here's the rss feed) While Z did not invent drunken podcasting, he did invent drunken podcasting month, endearing him to all BG fans. Nerd music shares an important philosophical cornerstone with the gaming community.  Nerd music is a culture of participants.  It is not a passive "turn on the radio and buy the CD."  In fact the only micro culture I know that has as large a percentage of Producers to Consumers is gaming. Nerd music inspires, not just emotion, but action.  Either directly or indirectly.  Directly by making people want to make their own music, raps, or mashups.  And Indirectly by inspiring other nerd activities like computers, zombie survival and fucking. Reminders We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter , Zeke's Twitter and Z's Twitter. Lots of good stuff on our Facebook Page! Join our Facebook Group! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #37) Problem Solving 1: Bad Communication (Don’t Kick People Out Pt 2) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-37-problem-solving-1-bad-communication-dont-kick-people-out-pt-2/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-37-problem-solving-1-bad-communication-dont-kick-people-out-pt-2/#comments Mon, 30 Mar 2009 14:49:52 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=78 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    • Aww!  This dog wants to catch the squirrel of his dreams so badly!
    • Do you remember the Watchmen Saturday Morning Cartoon?
    • We retold our Writer’s Retreat in Las Vegas stories.  Funnier than any link we could follow.

    News!:

    Meg played:

    We ask for feedback

    Problem Solving #1) The list of Don’ts

    1 – Criticize someone while talking to them

    “if you weren’t so lazy or stupid we wouldn’t have these problems.”

    criticizing, blame, judgments, put downs, diagnoses

    2 – Deny responsibility

    Putting responsibility on some thing else (a person thing or institution)

    “Daddy and I are splitting up because you cry”

    take responsibility for your own actions

    3 – Use words that imply evaluation not observation

    “I feel raped”

    I statements are shit

    attacked, blamed, criticized, insulted, isolated

    4 – Fail at active listening

    No autobiographical statements – don’t “one up” them

    “You think you have it bad…”

    No inquisitive questions – don’t interrogate them

    ”really? How far up the ass?”

    5 – Try to solve their problems

    “What you need to do is grow a beard”

    this is “problem solving” not “actually solving problems”

    Additional Fun!

    The Diminutive Nick Name – Try these out in your next conversation

    Ace, Boss, Champ, Chief, Junior, Kiddo, Scooter, Skipper, Slick, Slugger, Sparky, Sport, Tiger

    Babe, Cupcake, Cutie, Darlin’, Dollface, Hotlips, Princess, Pumpkin, Shorty, Sugar, Sweetheart, Toots

    Ideas from the episode:

    Trivia:

    Last week’s answer is revealed! Which one of us was a nerd because of Star Trek?

    This week’s question: Which one of us kept rats as pets?

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-37-problem-solving-1-bad-communication-dont-kick-people-out-pt-2/feed/ 2 advice,Back Seat Producers,bear swarm,Bohnanza,communicating,conventions,Inspectres,Josh is an asshole,Kicking Players Out,Las Vegas,podgecast,real world advice Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Aww!  This dog wants to catch the squirrel of his dreams so badly! Do you remember the Watchmen Saturday Morning Cartoon? We retold our Writer's Retreat in Las Vegas stories.  Funnier than any link we could follow. News!: We went to Jiffycon Josh went to Unclemonsterface We are going to Icon We went to Las Vegas on a writers retreat Strippers are cool, some of them are from Hawaii Meg went to St Louis People from St Louis are surly Bearswarm Rob is cool Luke is awesome (and an awesome doctor) Adam is a wholly owned subsidiary of Melina Enterprises Adams Dad is cool Lap Children Meg is too much of a pussy to describe Serenity on mic. And is really nice in describing the Serenity adventure Zeke is now forbidden to drink during the podcast (that's what that noise is). Meg played: Cold War - Confusing Bohnanza - Incredible Inspectres – Really Good Serenity – Utter Shite We ask for feedback Problem Solving #1) The list of Don'ts 1 – Criticize someone while talking to them “if you weren't so lazy or stupid we wouldn't have these problems.” criticizing, blame, judgments, put downs, diagnoses 2 – Deny responsibility Putting responsibility on some thing else (a person thing or institution) “Daddy and I are splitting up because you cry” take responsibility for your own actions 3 – Use words that imply evaluation not observation “I feel raped” I statements are shit attacked, blamed, criticized, insulted, isolated 4 - Fail at active listening No autobiographical statements – don't “one up” them “You think you have it bad...” No inquisitive questions – don't interrogate them ”really? How far up the ass?” 5 - Try to solve their problems “What you need to do is grow a beard” this is “problem solving” not “actually solving problems” Additional Fun! The Diminutive Nick Name - Try these out in your next conversation Ace, Boss, Champ, Chief, Junior, Kiddo, Scooter, Skipper, Slick, Slugger, Sparky, Sport, Tiger Babe, Cupcake, Cutie, Darlin', Dollface, Hotlips, Princess, Pumpkin, Shorty, Sugar, Sweetheart, Toots Ideas from the episode: It is your fault You are contributing to the Problem It just takes 1 person to think win-win people are not being jerkbags for no reason Actual inappropriate behavior what about the quiet and timid? The passive wallflower is just as bad as the aggressive asshole, maybe worse logistical problems Making threats or ultimatums justifications of punishment don't let it fester Tyranny of the Hawt Make serious medical inquiry's and be nice to people with crippling medical conditions You're not playing the game right You are responsible for your own decisions "oldest Johnas brother" is a call on trait post hoc Justification stand behind any reasoning's you use in a game example of taking responsibility Fuck E-Prime you don't have to say everything that you feel take responsibility for your feelings don't be passive aggressive, be aggressive aggressive retards disease is a serious problem don't just wait for your turn to speak the reason we have a podcast Trivia: Last week's answer is revealed! Which one of us was a nerd because of Star Trek? This week's question: Which one of us kept rats as pets? Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #39 (Bonus 10): Roundtable Discussion 001: Robert Bohl and Joshua Newman http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-10-roundtable-discussion-001/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-10-roundtable-discussion-001/#comments Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:52:12 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=81 (Note: Episodes 37 and 38 will be released on the next two regularly scheduled release dates.  As we said, we left this one as is instead of editing things like numbers and details and facts)

    News:

    The BG’s have one more event coming up.

    • April 3-5: I-Con, Long Island New York- we are featured guests and are going to record some of the guests in attendance! We have panels on Saturday and promise special prizes to anyone who comes and finds us!

    This week we were joined by

    Icebreaker: We Discuss Negativity on (our) Message Boards

    Main Topic: We Discuss Rob’s Live Journal Post about creativity.

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-10-roundtable-discussion-001/feed/ 1 BG Boards,Joshua Newman,misspent youth,online negativity,Robert Bohl,Shock (Note: Episodes 37 and 38 will be released on the next two regularly scheduled release dates.  As we said, we left this one as is instead of editing things like numbers and details and facts) - News: The BG's have one more event coming up. (Note: Episodes 37 and 38 will be released on the next two regularly scheduled release dates.  As we said, we left this one as is instead of editing things like numbers and details and facts) News: The BG's have one more event coming up. April 3-5: I-Con, Long Island New York- we are featured guests and are going to record some of the guests in attendance! We have panels on Saturday and promise special prizes to anyone who comes and finds us! This week we were joined by Joshua AC Newman - Writer of Shock and media darling Rob Bohl  - Writer of Misspent Youth and host of Independent Insurgency Icebreaker: We Discuss Negativity on (our) Message Boards Main Topic: We Discuss Rob's Live Journal Post about creativity. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode#36 – Kicking People Out (GM 05) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode36-kicking-people-out-gm-05/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode36-kicking-people-out-gm-05/#comments Wed, 18 Mar 2009 06:50:13 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=79 Note: We are back on track bitches

    News:

    The BG’s are attending two conventions and one concert coming up soon!

    • March 19: Uncle Monsterface concert at TT and the Bears in Boston. Good times for nerdcore!
    • March 21: JiffyCon Boston. Our favorite real-play con is coming to our area! If you are anywhere in the area, we STRONGLY recommend attending! It’s a good time!
    • April 3-5: I-Con, Long Island New York- we are featured guests and are going to record some of the guests in attendance! We have panels on Saturday and promise special prizes to anyone who comes and finds us!

    Icebreaker:

    There Are only 3 arguments More contested than kicking people out of your game

    1) Who would win in a fight, a caveman or an astronaut?

    2) Which is cooler, Ninjas or Pirates?

    3) Who would win in down and dirty street hoops, Gandalf or Yoda?

    Kicking People Out Part 1: Don’t Do it

    Part 1: Defining terms and laying out the groundwork

    • Don’t Kick people out of your games

    Part 2: describing the phenomenon

    • How often does this happen?
    • Are they your friends?  (The counter argument is “it is ok to treat people like shit” OR “kicking people out is not shitty”)
    • What about using creative ways to kick people out?  Changing the game night, not calling them?  = passive aggressive = grow up

    Part 3: When giving advice

    • It drowns out useful conjecture. A person looking for advice is looking for actual help. They know they could kick the guy out. They do not need dozens of yes man sycophants, going on about kicking the guy out. They need, and want, actual help.
    • Justification seeking behavior. Some people have made up their minds to be mean to their friend. And rather than down half a bottle of Jack to get their courage up, they are looking for reassurance that what they are doing is right. And it’s not. If you are going to be mean also be an adult about it.
    • You will not actually see it. Statistically the likelihood of someone needing to be kicked out is extremely low. The problem here is margin of error and false positives. If you advise 1% of cases to kick out a players you are drastically over prescribing. 1% means that you will be misdiagnosing over 100 good games for the 1 real case.
    • You Wont Need to. Because you will use problem solving
    • Do Not Consider Failure. This is a big point we call “Assume success” If you assume you will succeed
      • You can work backwards to a solution
      • You will not be preparing for failure

    Part 4: The Ethics of Kicking people out

    • Kicking people out is bad. It is immoral of you to force out and shun your friends.
    • Kicking people out is insanely passive aggressive – it is a lack of maturity on your part.
    • don’t fix douchery with douchery
    • You also miss out on picking on the sucker – schadenfreud

    Part 5: what to do and who does it

    There are three ways to look at responsibility

    1. Everyone is Responsible
    2. The GM is Responsible
    3. The Venue Owner is Responsible

    Trivia:

    Last week’s answer is revealed!

    This week’s question: Which one of the BG’s is a Geek because of Star Trek?

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode36-kicking-people-out-gm-05/feed/ 5 Note: We are back on track bitches - News: The BG's are attending two conventions and one concert coming up soon! - March 19: Uncle Monsterface concert at TT and the Bears in Boston. Good times for nerdcore! March 21: JiffyCon Boston. Note: We are back on track bitches News: The BG's are attending two conventions and one concert coming up soon! March 19: Uncle Monsterface concert at TT and the Bears in Boston. Good times for nerdcore! March 21: JiffyCon Boston. Our favorite real-play con is coming to our area! If you are anywhere in the area, we STRONGLY recommend attending! It's a good time! April 3-5: I-Con, Long Island New York- we are featured guests and are going to record some of the guests in attendance! We have panels on Saturday and promise special prizes to anyone who comes and finds us! Icebreaker: There Are only 3 arguments More contested than kicking people out of your game 1) Who would win in a fight, a caveman or an astronaut? 2) Which is cooler, Ninjas or Pirates? 3) Who would win in down and dirty street hoops, Gandalf or Yoda? Kicking People Out Part 1: Don't Do it Part 1: Defining terms and laying out the groundwork Don't Kick people out of your games Part 2: describing the phenomenon How often does this happen? Are they your friends?  (The counter argument is “it is ok to treat people like shit” OR “kicking people out is not shitty”) What about using creative ways to kick people out?  Changing the game night, not calling them?  = passive aggressive = grow up Part 3: When giving advice It drowns out useful conjecture. A person looking for advice is looking for actual help. They know they could kick the guy out. They do not need dozens of yes man sycophants, going on about kicking the guy out. They need, and want, actual help. Justification seeking behavior. Some people have made up their minds to be mean to their friend. And rather than down half a bottle of Jack to get their courage up, they are looking for reassurance that what they are doing is right. And it's not. If you are going to be mean also be an adult about it. You will not actually see it. Statistically the likelihood of someone needing to be kicked out is extremely low. The problem here is margin of error and false positives. If you advise 1% of cases to kick out a players you are drastically over prescribing. 1% means that you will be misdiagnosing over 100 good games for the 1 real case. You Wont Need to. Because you will use problem solving Do Not Consider Failure. This is a big point we call “Assume success” If you assume you will succeed You can work backwards to a solution You will not be preparing for failure Part 4: The Ethics of Kicking people out Kicking people out is bad. It is immoral of you to force out and shun your friends. Kicking people out is insanely passive aggressive – it is a lack of maturity on your part. don't fix douchery with douchery You also miss out on picking on the sucker – schadenfreud Part 5: what to do and who does it There are three ways to look at responsibility Everyone is Responsible The GM is Responsible The Venue Owner is Responsible Trivia: Last week's answer is revealed! This week's question: Which one of the BG's is a Geek because of Star Trek? Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #35: How to Min/Max 2- The Flowchart http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-35-how-to-minmax-2-the-flowchart/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-35-how-to-minmax-2-the-flowchart/#comments Mon, 09 Mar 2009 13:08:14 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=77 Note: Even more delay!  We’ve been so busy.  Zeke and Josh had birthdays (Feb. 12 and 18th respectively) and we went to Vegas.  Vegas baby!  We should be back on schedule now though!

    News:

    The BG’s are attending two conventions and one concert coming up soon!

    • March 19: Uncle Monsterface concert at TT and the Bears in Boston.  Good times for nerdcore!
    • March 21: JiffyCon Boston.  Our favorite real-play con is coming to our area!  If you are anywhere in the area, we STRONGLY recommend attending!  It’s a good time!
    • April 3-5: I-Con, Long Island New York- we are featured guests and are going to record some of the guests in attendance!  We have panels on Saturday and promise special prizes to anyone who comes and finds us!

    Icebreaker:

    Having a system for games not usually thought of as having a system

    • Zeke and Meg have a system for Yatzee.  Their book is soon to be released.
    • Josh has a strategy for Jenga.
    • The King of Kong had the nerdiest strategy ever.

    spaceship!

    How to Min/Max Part2: The Rinse-Wow Method

    • Initial Arbitrary Decision
    • Focus and Expand or Expand and Focus
    • Rinse
    • Repeat

    Download your very own (clean) copy in .pdf format here!

    MinMax Flowchart

    Trivia:

    Last week’s answer is revealed! Which one of us uses a ballet inspired ballet program?

    This week’s question: Which pair of us never worked together?

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-35-how-to-minmax-2-the-flowchart/feed/ 3 Donkey Kong,Jenga,min/maxing,RinseWow Note: Even more delay!  We've been so busy.  Zeke and Josh had birthdays (Feb. 12 and 18th respectively) and we went to Vegas.  Vegas baby!  We should be back on schedule now though! News: The BG's are attending two conventions and one concert coming u... Note: Even more delay!  We've been so busy.  Zeke and Josh had birthdays (Feb. 12 and 18th respectively) and we went to Vegas.  Vegas baby!  We should be back on schedule now though! News: The BG's are attending two conventions and one concert coming up soon! March 19: Uncle Monsterface concert at TT and the Bears in Boston.  Good times for nerdcore! March 21: JiffyCon Boston.  Our favorite real-play con is coming to our area!  If you are anywhere in the area, we STRONGLY recommend attending!  It's a good time! April 3-5: I-Con, Long Island New York- we are featured guests and are going to record some of the guests in attendance!  We have panels on Saturday and promise special prizes to anyone who comes and finds us! Icebreaker: Having a system for games not usually thought of as having a system Zeke and Meg have a system for Yatzee.  Their book is soon to be released. Josh has a strategy for Jenga. The King of Kong had the nerdiest strategy ever. How to Min/Max Part2: The Rinse-Wow Method Initial Arbitrary Decision Focus and Expand or Expand and Focus Rinse Repeat Download your very own (clean) copy in .pdf format here! Trivia: Last week's answer is revealed! Which one of us uses a ballet inspired ballet program? This week's question: Which pair of us never worked together? Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #34: How to Min/Max, Part 1: Definitions and Goals http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-34-how-to-minmax-part-1-definitions-and-goals/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-34-how-to-minmax-part-1-definitions-and-goals/#comments Sun, 15 Feb 2009 03:21:09 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=72 Note: Sorry for the delay in this episode.  We had a lot going on.  Josh was in the hospital (twice), Meg had quick trips out of state (twice) and Zeke got a dog (just once, but he’s awesome enough for two).  We have the next two episodes all recorded and just need to edit and get them out, hopefully on schedule!

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    Strange sources of inspiration for gaming

    How to Min/Max Part 1:

    Before listening, you should be familiar with

    The Rinse-Wow Method

    Note: To compete this exercise, get a piece of paper and something to write with along with your normal character creation supplies

    The Rules:

    1. There are no rules
    2. Never Cram
    3. Don’t try to do everything
    4. Be flexible
    5. Cast a wide net
    6. Hold nothing sacred

    Defining Terms

    1. Goal- What you’re trying to accomplish in a character, your intentions for that character
    2. Element- The choices you make in terms of system specific stuff.  The building blocks of character generation.

    How to Start:

    Step 1: Initial Arbitrary Decision

    • Get inspiration!

    IAD’s can fall into several categories

    • A specific race or class or other game element (put on element side)
    • A game mechanic or concept
    • A background or dramatic concept

    Brainstorm and Stormbrain

    Follow the Steps:

    Step 1

    Step 2

    Download your own sheet here!

    Trivia:

    Last week’s answer is revealed! Which one of us was kicked out of catechism?

    This week’s question: Which one of us uses a ballet inspired dance program?

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-34-how-to-minmax-part-1-definitions-and-goals/feed/ 1 advice,min/max,shamwow,snuggie,Strippers,Venture Brothers Note: Sorry for the delay in this episode.  We had a lot going on.  Josh was in the hospital (twice), Meg had quick trips out of state (twice) and Zeke got a dog (just once, but he's awesome enough for two). Note: Sorry for the delay in this episode.  We had a lot going on.  Josh was in the hospital (twice), Meg had quick trips out of state (twice) and Zeke got a dog (just once, but he's awesome enough for two).  We have the next two episodes all recorded and just need to edit and get them out, hopefully on schedule! Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Jonathan Richman's I was Dancing in the Lesbian Bar Clitter! Icebreaker: Strange sources of inspiration for gaming Zeke was inspired by Tweeter and the Monkey Man and Moist Towellets Meg wants to make a game based on Rocky Raccoon Josh likes movie credits Our guru, the always inspirational, Vince. How to Min/Max Part 1: Before listening, you should be familiar with Min/Max Basics The joy of Min/Maxing The Rinse-Wow Method Note: To compete this exercise, get a piece of paper and something to write with along with your normal character creation supplies The Rules: There are no rules Never Cram Don't try to do everything Be flexible Cast a wide net Hold nothing sacred Defining Terms Goal- What you're trying to accomplish in a character, your intentions for that character Element- The choices you make in terms of system specific stuff.  The building blocks of character generation. How to Start: Step 1: Initial Arbitrary Decision Get inspiration! IAD's can fall into several categories A specific race or class or other game element (put on element side) A game mechanic or concept A background or dramatic concept Brainstorm and Stormbrain Follow the Steps: Download your own sheet here! Trivia: Last week's answer is revealed! Which one of us was kicked out of catechism? This week's question: Which one of us uses a ballet inspired dance program? Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Geek Girls Roundtable #2 (Bonus: Collaboration) http://brilliantgameologists.com/geek-girls-roundtable-2-bonus-collaboration/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/geek-girls-roundtable-2-bonus-collaboration/#comments Mon, 09 Feb 2009 20:17:52 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=75 We will be back to our reguarly scheduled posting very very soon- we have 3 extremely “crunchy” episodes in the pipeline that we hope you’ll love.  Just a lot of travel and personal crap going on right now that is delaying our normal schedule.  But soon!  Very soon!

    In the meantime- check out Part 2 of the Geek Girls Rule Roundtable.  Not as structured as part 1, but Meg announces a “secret”…  wait for it… wait for it…

    Reposted from Mickey’s site.  Enjoy!

    ***********************************

    Geek Girls Rule! Podcast 9, Part II – Attack of the Girl Gaming Podcasters

    Attack of the Girl Gaming Podcasters – The final chapter.

    Kristin of This Modern Death, Meg from the Brilliant Gameologists, Jenn from the Trapcast and myself finish our conversation from Part I.

    Gamestorm:  http://www.gamestorm.org/
    Confessions of a Part-time Sorceress
    Magic the Gathering
    Wizards of the Coast
    Burning Wheel
    Prime Time Adventures
    Ryan Macklin
    GenCon
    Babeland
    Valerie Strangiato
    Charlie’s Kids Evolution Map
    Skepticality
    Skepchick
    Pharyngula
    DragonCon
    Bad Astronomer
    George Hrab
    Twitter
    Design Toscano

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/geek-girls-roundtable-2-bonus-collaboration/feed/ 1 burning wheel,Collaboration,DragonCon,Gaming Girls,geek girls rule,gencon,skepchick,skeptic,this modern death,trapcast,Twitter We will be back to our reguarly scheduled posting very very soon- we have 3 extremely "crunchy" episodes in the pipeline that we hope you'll love.  Just a lot of travel and personal crap going on right now that is delaying our normal schedule.  But soon! We will be back to our reguarly scheduled posting very very soon- we have 3 extremely "crunchy" episodes in the pipeline that we hope you'll love.  Just a lot of travel and personal crap going on right now that is delaying our normal schedule.  But soon!  Very soon! In the meantime- check out Part 2 of the Geek Girls Rule Roundtable.  Not as structured as part 1, but Meg announces a "secret"...  wait for it... wait for it... Reposted from Mickey's site.  Enjoy! *********************************** Geek Girls Rule! Podcast 9, Part II - Attack of the Girl Gaming Podcasters Attack of the Girl Gaming Podcasters - The final chapter. Kristin of This Modern Death, Meg from the Brilliant Gameologists, Jenn from the Trapcast and myself finish our conversation from Part I. Gamestorm:  http://www.gamestorm.org/ Confessions of a Part-time Sorceress Magic the Gathering Wizards of the Coast Burning Wheel Prime Time Adventures Ryan Macklin GenCon Babeland Valerie Strangiato Charlie's Kids Evolution Map Skepticality Skepchick Pharyngula DragonCon Bad Astronomer George Hrab Twitter Design Toscano Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Geek Girls Roundtable (Bonus: Collaboration) http://brilliantgameologists.com/geek-girls-roundtable-bonus-collaboration/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/geek-girls-roundtable-bonus-collaboration/#comments Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:55:08 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=74 Because I’m so horribly late getting our new episodes out, here’s a show that I (Meg) am featured on to tide you over.

    Mickey from the podcast “Geek Girls Rule” had me, Kristen from This Modern Death and Jenn from TrapCast on to talk about Gaming Girl Sterotypes.  We recorded over skype, so excuse the quality, but it was a blast to nerd up with some other ladies.

    This is just a repost of Mickey’s show.

    *********************

    Geek Girls Rule! Podcast #9 Part I – Attack of the Girl Gaming Podcasters

    Ok, so this is part one of the Girl Gaming Podcasters Podcast hosted on Geek Girls Rule!  Kristin from “This Modern Death,” Meg from “The Brilliant Gameologists” and Jenn from “The Trap Cast” joined me via Skype for over two hours of giggling chaos.

    In this half of the podcast, we discuss how we got into gaming, bad gamer girl stereotypes, the health of my hedgehog Wash and other critters, and what we’re currently playing, as well as pimping our separate podcasts.

    Brilliant Gameologists – Meg
    This Modern Death – Kristin
    The Trap Cast – Jenn

    Dungeons & Dragons
    Little Fears
    Grimm
    Unhallowed Metropolis
    GURPS
    Warhammer
    Burning Wheel (don’t let the front page fool you)
    Shadowrun
    Faery’s Tale
    Bad Female Gamer Archetypes
    Bad Male Gamer Archetypes

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/geek-girls-roundtable-bonus-collaboration/feed/ 0 burning wheel,Collaboration,faery's tale,Gaming Girls,geek girls rule,GURPS,Shadowrun,this modern death,trapcast,Unhallowed Metropolis,Warhammer Because I'm so horribly late getting our new episodes out, here's a show that I (Meg) am featured on to tide you over. - Mickey from the podcast "Geek Girls Rule" had me, Kristen from This Modern Death and Jenn from TrapCast on to talk about Gaming Gir... Because I'm so horribly late getting our new episodes out, here's a show that I (Meg) am featured on to tide you over. Mickey from the podcast "Geek Girls Rule" had me, Kristen from This Modern Death and Jenn from TrapCast on to talk about Gaming Girl Sterotypes.  We recorded over skype, so excuse the quality, but it was a blast to nerd up with some other ladies. This is just a repost of Mickey's show. ********************* Geek Girls Rule! Podcast #9 Part I - Attack of the Girl Gaming Podcasters Ok, so this is part one of the Girl Gaming Podcasters Podcast hosted on Geek Girls Rule!  Kristin from "This Modern Death," Meg from "The Brilliant Gameologists" and Jenn from "The Trap Cast" joined me via Skype for over two hours of giggling chaos. In this half of the podcast, we discuss how we got into gaming, bad gamer girl stereotypes, the health of my hedgehog Wash and other critters, and what we're currently playing, as well as pimping our separate podcasts. Brilliant Gameologists - Meg This Modern Death - Kristin The Trap Cast - Jenn Dungeons & Dragons Little Fears Grimm Unhallowed Metropolis GURPS Warhammer Burning Wheel (don't let the front page fool you) Shadowrun Faery's Tale Bad Female Gamer Archetypes Bad Male Gamer Archetypes Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     A Very Special Episode: The Intervention of Josh http://brilliantgameologists.com/a-very-special-episode-the-intervention-of-josh/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/a-very-special-episode-the-intervention-of-josh/#comments Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:36:16 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=73 The Bad Boys of Podcasting first project is here and tackles a very important issue that we’ve all been affected by.

    Josh is an asshole.

    Peer into the inner depths of each of the following podcasters and join us in Josh’s healing process.

    Intervention Moderator:

    Intervention Participants:

    Intervention Target:

    The music featured was Adhesion’s “Float Up from Depth” found on the Podshow’s Podsafe Music Network

    This intervention was recorded over skype.

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/a-very-special-episode-the-intervention-of-josh/feed/ 1 accidental survivors,Bad Boys of Podcasting,bear swarm,Collaboration,intervention,Josh is an asshole,the podge cast The Bad Boys of Podcasting first project is here and tackles a very important issue that we've all been affected by. Josh is an asshole. Peer into the inner depths of each of the following podcasters and join us in Josh's healing process. The Bad Boys of Podcasting first project is here and tackles a very important issue that we've all been affected by. Josh is an asshole. Peer into the inner depths of each of the following podcasters and join us in Josh's healing process. Intervention Moderator: Meg- Brilliant Gameologists http://brilliantgameologists.com/ Intervention Participants: Adam/ David: The Podge Cast http://podgecast.com/ Luke: The Podge Cast http://podgecast.com/ Rob: Accidental Survivors http://accidentalsurvivors.libsyn.com/ Rob: The Bear Swarm http://www.bearswarm.com/ Zeke: Brilliant Gameologists http://brilliantgameologists.com/ Intervention Target: Josh: Brilliant Gameologists http://brilliantgameologists.com/ was lured to the intervention on the promise of awards for "Mr. Sexy Gaming Podcaster 2008". The music featured was Adhesion's "Float Up from Depth" found on the Podshow's Podsafe Music Network This intervention was recorded over skype. Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #33: Special LIVE Episode! Happy Birthday Meg! http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-33-special-live-episode-happy-birthday-meg/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-33-special-live-episode-happy-birthday-meg/#comments Sun, 11 Jan 2009 10:25:08 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=70 Meg with birthday muffin

    Part 1: Pre-recording!

    Join the Brilliant Gameologists on January 8th at 9:00 EST/ 6:00 PST P.M. on UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/brilliant-gameologists. Come in and chat with us and we’ll answer questions live on air. Plus, it’s a chance to say Happy Birthday to Meg!

    The official topic is Gaming Parties- how to throw your own gaming themed party- birthdays, holidays, “because it’s Saturday” etc. Play role-playing games, tabletop games and board games for fun and profit! Well, fun at least.

    Let us know if you’re coming! Comment here, RSPV on our Facebook event page, or on UStream or on our boards in THIS thread.

    Part 2: Post-Recording!

    Here’s the show, completely unedited and as heard by the 31 members in our chatroom!  Warning- we are all over the place and it won’t offend us if you don’t listen to it!  This is complete total bonus and has zero gaming advice.  We will do some of these periodically for those interested in our personalities, but know that if you tune in for gaming content, just skip these ones.

    We listed some of our favorite podcasts in this show based on a question from the chatroom.  They are:

    Comedy:

    Information

    Music

    Gaming:

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-33-special-live-episode-happy-birthday-meg/feed/ 3 accidental survivors,bear swarm,birthday,bonus,drunk,favorite podcasts,live,podgecast,this modern death,trapcast,you look nice today - Part 1: Pre-recording! Join the Brilliant Gameologists on January 8th at 9:00 EST/ 6:00 PST P.M. on UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/brilliant-gameologists. Come in and chat with us and we'll answer questions live on air. Plus, Part 1: Pre-recording! Join the Brilliant Gameologists on January 8th at 9:00 EST/ 6:00 PST P.M. on UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/brilliant-gameologists. Come in and chat with us and we'll answer questions live on air. Plus, it's a chance to say Happy Birthday to Meg! The official topic is Gaming Parties- how to throw your own gaming themed party- birthdays, holidays, "because it's Saturday" etc. Play role-playing games, tabletop games and board games for fun and profit! Well, fun at least. Let us know if you're coming! Comment here, RSPV on our Facebook event page, or on UStream or on our boards in THIS thread. Part 2: Post-Recording! Here's the show, completely unedited and as heard by the 31 members in our chatroom!  Warning- we are all over the place and it won't offend us if you don't listen to it!  This is complete total bonus and has zero gaming advice.  We will do some of these periodically for those interested in our personalities, but know that if you tune in for gaming content, just skip these ones. We listed some of our favorite podcasts in this show based on a question from the chatroom.  They are: Comedy: You Look Nice Today http://feeds.feedburner.com/YouLookNiceToday Nobody Likes Onions http://feeds.feedburner.com/nlo Distorted View http://www.distortedview.com/show/index.xml Information Hardcore History http://www.dancarlin.com/dchh.xml Hometown Tales http://hometowntales.com/htpodcast.xml MuggleCast http://www.mugglenet.com/mugglecast/mugglecast.rss Secret Identity http://secretidentity.podomatic.com/rss2.xml Sex is Fun http://feeds.feedburner.com/GSGPodcasts Skepticality http://skepticality.libsyn.com/rss/ Skeptoid http://skeptoid.com/podcast.xml Skeptics Guide to the Universe http://www.theskepticsguide.org/rss.xml The Word Nerds http://thewordnerds.org/?feed=podcast Music Coverville http://feeds.feedburner.com/coverville Radio Free Hipster http://feeds.feedburner.com/RadioFreeHipster Gaming: 2d6 in a Random Direction http://www.2d6feet.com/?feed=rss2&cat=3 Accidental Survivors http://accidentalsurvivors.libsyn.com/rss Bear Swarm http://feeds.feedburner.com/BearSwarm Geek Girls Rule Feed: http://sirriamnicast.libsyn.com/rss Independent Insurgency http://independentinsurgency.libsyn.com/rss Master Plan http://masterplanpodcast.net/rss Ogre Cave Audio Report http://www.ogrecave.com/audio/podcast.php Pulp Gamer Sons of Kryos http://feeds.feedburner.com/Sonsofkryos Stabbing Contest http://stabbingcontest.libsyn.com/rss The Podge Cast http://podgecast.com/feed This Modern Death http://thismoderndeath.libsyn.com/rss TrapCast http://trapcast.trapdom.com/xml/trapcast.xml Theory from the Closet http://theoryfromthecloset.com/feed/ Virtual Play http://virtualplay.podbus.com/?feed=rss2 Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Join our Facebook Group! Check out Meg's Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #32: 7 Gaming Resolutions (Meta 08) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-32-7-gaming-resolutions-meta-08/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-32-7-gaming-resolutions-meta-08/#comments Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:15:01 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=71 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    News:

    It’s Meg’s birthday this coming Saturday, January 10th!  To celebrate, we are having our first special LIVE episode this Thursday, January 8th!  Come on in and chat with us in real time!  See this blog post for more information.

    Icebreaker:

    Podcast resolutions!

    • Meg wants more charts and graphs and wants to say “douche” and “fantastic” less
    • Josh wants to do more reviews
    • Zeke wants to party like it’s 1999.

    7 Gaming Resolutions

    Get your own bingo card and play along! Get Bingo (or “GAMER” as we eventually decided) and get your very own Official GAMER card! We’re playing too! Track our progress on our message boards.

    Bingo!

    1. Play New Games- a new story game, new action-adventure game and a new tabletop game.
    2. Pay it forward- convince someone new to play a game.
    3. Put together a character you wouldn’t normally consider
    4. Learn how to play a game differently- use a mechanic you normally avoid, find a new way to solve an old problem or find new problems to solve.
    5. Play with strangers 3 different times (in order to get all 3 checks- playing once with 3 new people doesn’t count!)
    6. Go to a convention- a regional con (under 500 people), a state con (500 or more people), and a national con (2,000 or more).
    7. Why so serious??
      1. Play a crazy game
      2. Convince others to play a game crazy
      3. Put together a fun/silly character in a real game
      4. Do something fun and unexpected in a game
      5. Play with someone crazy or a stranger in a strange spot
      6. Let yourself out of the box- play a character in real life at a con

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-32-7-gaming-resolutions-meta-08/feed/ 0 advice,Anal,bingo,gamer card,Meg's Birthday,News,Paranoia,Phil,podgecast,Porn,Primetime Adventures,Savage Worlds Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Funny or Die's Mystique is Pregnant Funny or Die's 40 Inspirational Speeches in Two Minutes A montage of the Best Viral Videos of 2008. Must be seen to be appreciated: News: It's Meg's birthday this coming Saturday, January 10th!  To celebrate, we are having our first special LIVE episode this Thursday, January 8th!  Come on in and chat with us in real time!  See this blog post for more information. Icebreaker: Podcast resolutions! Meg wants more charts and graphs and wants to say "douche" and "fantastic" less Josh wants to do more reviews Zeke wants to party like it's 1999. 7 Gaming Resolutions Get your own bingo card and play along! Get Bingo (or "GAMER" as we eventually decided) and get your very own Official GAMER card! We're playing too! Track our progress on our message boards. Play New Games- a new story game, new action-adventure game and a new tabletop game. Pay it forward- convince someone new to play a game. Put together a character you wouldn't normally consider Learn how to play a game differently- use a mechanic you normally avoid, find a new way to solve an old problem or find new problems to solve. Play with strangers 3 different times (in order to get all 3 checks- playing once with 3 new people doesn't count!) Go to a convention- a regional con (under 500 people), a state con (500 or more people), and a national con (2,000 or more). Why so serious?? Play a crazy game Convince others to play a game crazy Put together a fun/silly character in a real game Do something fun and unexpected in a game Play with someone crazy or a stranger in a strange spot Let yourself out of the box- play a character in real life at a con Reminders- The answer to last episode's trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week's? Post on the thread about this episode here. We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Lots of good stuff on our Facebook Page! Join our Facebook Group! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #31: Venues– The Comfort-Focus Axis (Setting 06) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-31-venues-the-comfort-focus-axis-setting-06/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-31-venues-the-comfort-focus-axis-setting-06/#comments Mon, 29 Dec 2008 05:36:05 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=69 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Curious Cow says Moo?

    Icebreaker:

    Strange places we’ve gamed:

    • Josh had fun in the blackout party!
    • Zeke played in a schoolbus.
    • Meg played at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico.

    The Grid:

    Meg's original artwork

    Miscellaney

    1. The answer to last episode’s trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week’s? Post on the thread about this episode here.
    2. A challenge to next to V3 event. Many will enter. One will win.
    3. Submit your board game fanfic to GM@BrilliantGameologists.com!

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-31-venues-the-comfort-focus-axis-setting-06/feed/ 1 burning wheel,Comfortable Gaming,Dungeons and Dragons,Focused Gaming,Gaming Stuff,gencon,Interrupting Cow,Primetime Adventures Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. T-Pain's song Apple Bottom Jeans We went through our favorites at Failblog. Got a kick especially out of this one: Icebreaker: Strange places we've gamed: Josh had fun in the blackout party! Zeke played in a schoolbus. Meg played at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. The Grid: Miscellaney The answer to last episode's trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week's? Post on the thread about this episode here. A challenge to next to V3 event. Many will enter. One will win. Submit your board game fanfic to GM@BrilliantGameologists.com! Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Lots of good stuff on our Facebook Page! Join our Facebook Group! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #30: Gifts for your Gamer Geek (Meta 07) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-30-gifts-for-your-gamer-geek-meta-07/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-30-gifts-for-your-gamer-geek-meta-07/#comments Thu, 18 Dec 2008 05:22:02 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=67 News:

    Nominations for 2008 Zeekies are still being accepted! Share your favorite holiday commercials, please! The field is looking grim.

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    What we want for Christmas

    • Meg wants a new sound board and Brilliant Gameologists fanfic.
    • Josh wants either Bacon of the Month or Stripper of the Month.
    • Zeke wants Ham of the Month and will take Josh’s bacon.
    • Meg wants fanfic! Board game fanfic and Brilliant Gameologists fanfic. Make this a very special Christmas and email her!

    Gift Ideas:

    Cheap:

    $20-$30

    Games People Should Have

    Gateway Games- games to play with your non-gamer family/friends

    Party Games

    The Real-Nerd’s Essentials:

    High Price/ High Profile

    Gaming Girl

    Gaming Baby/ Pet

    Kits

    Brilliant Gameologists Kit: CD of our shows, boob card, ShamWow, Crown Royale, Con shirt worn in protest, Hatorade, Burning Wheel with pages stuck together, Vampire Toilet paper, cake

    Gifts to you!

    • Hug Coupon from Josh and Smearless Hug Coupon from Zeke
    • Boob Curve Cards

    Miscellaney

    1. The answer to last episode’s trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week’s? Post on the thread about this episode here.
    2. A challenge to next to V3 event. Many will enter. One will win.
    3. Submit your board game fanfic to GM@BrilliantGameologists.com!

    Shout-Outs

    1. Podgecast and V3 event
    2. Phil, friend of Podgecast and of The Gaming Grid
    3. Myriad Games, our Friendly Local Professional Game Store. Support the show by buying game supplies online and say we sent you- more prizes to give away!

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-30-gifts-for-your-gamer-geek-meta-07/feed/ 1 boob cards,brilliant gameologists kit,Coverville,donations,gifts,girls,Hipster Please!,Myriad Games,podgecast,you look nice today News: Nominations for 2008 Zeekies are still being accepted! Share your favorite holiday commercials, please! The field is looking grim. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. News: Nominations for 2008 Zeekies are still being accepted! Share your favorite holiday commercials, please! The field is looking grim. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. We watched (and rewatched) The Lazy Town/ Lil John Mashup. Very NSFW! A lot of the show is in reference to this, so you'll need to watch it! Icebreaker: What we want for Christmas Meg wants a new sound board and Brilliant Gameologists fanfic. Josh wants either Bacon of the Month or Stripper of the Month. Zeke wants Ham of the Month and will take Josh's bacon. Meg wants fanfic! Board game fanfic and Brilliant Gameologists fanfic. Make this a very special Christmas and email her! Gift Ideas: Cheap: Dice Dicebag Personal Care Supplies Office Supplies Initiative Tracker "Kit" White Board, Magnetic Trackers, Folder Tabs Make your own Dog game Board image Savage Worlds Explorer's Edition ($10) Coupon Books Make a CD of Podcasts You Look Nice Today, Coverville, Hipster, Please! Cheap books- cookbooks, atlas, baby names Cheap DVD's to use for inspiration Misspent Youth- paypal $12 directly to author Robert Bohl Story Games Name Project (we were wrong about price) $10.97 $20-$30 Caper $21 Burning Wheel Zombie Cinema Dread Primetime Adventures (pdf is $12) Spirit of the Century Games People Should Have Gateway Games- games to play with your non-gamer family/friends Bohnanza ($20) Modern Art ($25) Vegas Showdown ($45) Hollywood Blockbuster ($39.99) Poison ($15) Aquädukt ($27.99) Citadels ($25) Blokus ($35) Party Games Apples to Apples ($20-$40) Word Blur ($20) Wits and Wagers ($30) The Real-Nerd's Essentials: Race for the Galaxy ($35) Expansion ($25) Dominion ($45 and worth every penny) Pillars of the Earth ($49) Stone Age ($45) High Price/ High Profile WiFi Printer Sultan Gaming Table Sex Ramps Gaming Girl Apparel- Teeshirt Hell Pink Dice Gaming Baby/ Pet Plushy Cthulhu Germs Kits Brilliant Gameologists Kit: CD of our shows, boob card, ShamWow, Crown Royale, Con shirt worn in protest, Hatorade, Burning Wheel with pages stuck together, Vampire Toilet paper, cake Gifts to you! Hug Coupon from Josh and Smearless Hug Coupon from Zeke Boob Curve Cards Miscellaney The answer to last episode's trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week's? Post on the thread about this episode here. A challenge to next to V3 event. Many will enter. One will win. Submit your board game fanfic to GM@BrilliantGameologists.com! Shout-Outs Podgecast and V3 event Phil, friend of Podgecast and of The Gaming Grid Myriad Games, our Friendly Local Professional Game Store. Support the show by buying game supplies online and say we sent you- more prizes to give away! Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Lots of good stuff on our Facebook Page! Join our Facebook Group! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #29: Table Roles and Table Rules (System 06) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-29-table-roles-and-table-rules-system-06/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-29-table-roles-and-table-rules-system-06/#comments Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:28:29 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=66 News:

    Nominations for 2008 Zeekies are now being accepted! Share your favorite holiday commercials.

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    Rules we have at the normal, day to day table.

    • Meg hates forks on teeth.
    • Josh gets uncomfortable seeing 2 girls kiss
    • Zeke won’t repeat himself

    Douchebag of the Week:

    The Bait n’ Switcher

    Table Roles and Table Rules

    Part of our Jargon Series. Part 2 of Sode #24: Rule 0/ House Rules

    Player Roles at the Table

    A Real World Need

    • Cupomancer
    • Caterer
    • Court Jester
    • The Handler

    An in game need:

    • Initiative Tracker
    • Quartermaster
    • Scribe
    • Encyclopedia

    Table Rules

    1. Dice Rolling
    2. Everything Else
    3. Take-Backs

    Miscellaney

    1) The answer to last episode’s trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week’s? Post on the thread about this episode here.

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-29-table-roles-and-table-rules-system-06/feed/ 1 dice rules,douchebag,jargon,Josh is an asshole,shamwow,table roles News: Nominations for 2008 Zeekies are now being accepted! Share your favorite holiday commercials. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the ... News: Nominations for 2008 Zeekies are now being accepted! Share your favorite holiday commercials. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. We went back to our standard favorite: The ShamWow (real commercial) And then went on to find the greatest parody ever. Icky Thump by the White Stripes Did Jack White provide vocals for Electric 6? Icebreaker: Rules we have at the normal, day to day table. Meg hates forks on teeth. Josh gets uncomfortable seeing 2 girls kiss Zeke won't repeat himself Douchebag of the Week: The Bait n' Switcher Table Roles and Table Rules Part of our Jargon Series. Part 2 of Sode #24: Rule 0/ House Rules Player Roles at the Table A Real World Need Cupomancer Caterer Court Jester The Handler An in game need: Initiative Tracker Quartermaster Scribe Encyclopedia Table Rules Dice Rolling Everything Else Take-Backs Miscellaney 1) The answer to last episode's trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week's? Post on the thread about this episode here. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Lots of good stuff on our Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #28: Overdone Payouts (System 05) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-28-overdone-payouts-system-05/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-28-overdone-payouts-system-05/#comments Sun, 30 Nov 2008 13:29:23 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=65 News:

    JiffyCon Lowell/ V3 is almost here! Sign up today! Or visit the event on its Facebook Page!

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    Things we used to like that we overdid

    Douchebag of the Week:

    The Deflater

    Overdone Payouts:

    Part of our Jargon Series. Part 2 of 2.

    What happens when someone gets their payouts at the expense of others at the table?

    GNS Theory: Gamist, Narrativist and Simulationist.

    1. Munchkins
    2. Powergamers
    3. Rigamarole Players
    4. Simulation Turds
    5. Stuck in a Fantasy World

    Miscellaney

    The upcoming Brilliant Gameologists’ game now includes:

    • Captain Kangaroo
    • The Moose
    • Lee Marvin
    • Fred Rogers
    • Daniel the Cat
    • Lady Elane Fairchild

    Chicken wing on swords is a joke from You Look Nice Today’s Aunt Nancy episode. Hilarious.

    Some additional info:

    1) The answer to last episode’s trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week’s? Post on the thread about this episode here.

    Reminders-

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-28-overdone-payouts-system-05/feed/ 0 captain kangaroo,don't kick players out,edutainment,GNS,jargon,jiffycon,munchkin,payouts,powergamer,rigamarole players,simulation turds,singing News: JiffyCon Lowell/ V3 is almost here! Sign up today! Or visit the event on its Facebook Page! Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the ... News: JiffyCon Lowell/ V3 is almost here! Sign up today! Or visit the event on its Facebook Page! Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Hey There Delilah by the Plain White T's I'm Yours by Jason Mraz Icebreaker: Things we used to like that we overdid Douchebag of the Week: The Deflater Overdone Payouts: Part of our Jargon Series. Part 2 of 2. What happens when someone gets their payouts at the expense of others at the table? GNS Theory: Gamist, Narrativist and Simulationist. Munchkins Powergamers Rigamarole Players Simulation Turds Stuck in a Fantasy World Miscellaney The upcoming Brilliant Gameologists' game now includes: Captain Kangaroo The Moose Lee Marvin Fred Rogers Daniel the Cat Lady Elane Fairchild Chicken wing on swords is a joke from You Look Nice Today's Aunt Nancy episode. Hilarious. Some additional info: 1) The answer to last episode's trivia question is contained! Think you know the answer to this week's? Post on the thread about this episode here. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter, Josh's Twitter and Zeke's Twitter. Lots of good stuff on our Facebook Page! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #27: Payouts (System 04) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-27-payouts-system-04/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-27-payouts-system-04/#comments Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:01:07 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=61 BGios

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Our warm up was entirely un-electronic. Zeke yelled at Meg’s neighbors and we had a heated discussion about some posters on our Message Boards.

    Icebreaker:

    Non RPG’s that we enjoy and the payouts that make us happy.

    Race for the Galaxy– great game. Support a great Friendly Local Gaming Store and buy your copy today! With the expansion!

    Douchebag of the Week:

    The Novelist

    Payouts:

    Part of our Jargon Series. Part 1 or 2.

    What do you like about role playing? What makes you excited? The Payout Model explains why people are different elements to use to fire up your game and players.

    1. Character Payouts- Getting stuff for your character
    2. Player Payouts- What do you enjoy at the table?
    3. GM Payouts- GMs can have fun too!
    4. Visceral Reaction Payouts- Gaming feels good!
    5. Intellectual Payouts- Gamenugen
    6. Creative Payouts- Dra-ma!
    7. Scholarly Payouts- Meg loves her drumlins
    8. Kinesthetic Payouts- Cosplay= ok. Furries = BAD

    Some additional info:

    1) This is our first shot at a Trivia Question of the Week.  Submit your answer in the thread about this episode on our message boards!

    2) We lowered the quality again on this episode to try and keep the file size manageable.  Let us know if it went too far.

    Reminders-

    We put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-27-payouts-system-04/feed/ 0 edutainment,gaming,jargon,Myriad Games,payouts,Race for the Galaxy,Trivia - Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Our warm up was entirely un-electronic. Zeke yelled at Meg's neighbors and we had a heated discussion about some posters on our Message Boards. Icebreaker: Non RPG's that we enjoy and the payouts that make us happy. Race for the Galaxy-- great game. Support a great Friendly Local Gaming Store and buy your copy today! With the expansion! Douchebag of the Week: The Novelist Payouts: Part of our Jargon Series. Part 1 or 2. What do you like about role playing? What makes you excited? The Payout Model explains why people are different elements to use to fire up your game and players. Character Payouts- Getting stuff for your character Player Payouts- What do you enjoy at the table? GM Payouts- GMs can have fun too! Visceral Reaction Payouts- Gaming feels good! Intellectual Payouts- Gamenugen Creative Payouts- Dra-ma! Scholarly Payouts- Meg loves her drumlins Kinesthetic Payouts- Cosplay= ok. Furries = BAD Some additional info: 1) This is our first shot at a Trivia Question of the Week.  Submit your answer in the thread about this episode on our message boards! 2) We lowered the quality again on this episode to try and keep the file size manageable.  Let us know if it went too far. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #26: Gender Bending and Playing What You Ain’t (Player 04) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-26-gender-bending-and-playing-what-you-aint-player-04/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-26-gender-bending-and-playing-what-you-aint-player-04/#comments Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:00:02 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=57 Happy Election Day!

    Only a couple of days!

    JiffyCon is this Saturday!! Enjoy new, indie games and play with the Gameologists! www.jiffycon.com

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    We’ve been watching a lot of Saturday Night Live clips…

    Dudes playing chicks/ Playing something you ain’t:

    1. Don’t be a douche
    2. Be Sensitive
    3. Just be the character
    4. Don’t have it be the only interesting aspect of the character
    5. Don’t constantly talk about being a _____
    6. Sex is not the only decision a girl makes

    Playing a girl- something different:

    • Mother
    • Old Lady
    • Maiden
    • Historical game stereotype
    • Intrepid Girl Reporter
    • Empty Nester

    Other things you ain’t:

    • Gays/ Straights
    • Philosophically or ethically different
    • Kids
    • The “Other”
    • Crazy
    • Elderly
    • Disabled
    • Bromance

    Getting Into Character:

    • Stanislavski’s System
      • What is your character’s goal?
      • Aspects of the character?
      • Use your memory “bag”
    • Change your voice:
      • Pitch
      • Tone
      • Volume
      • Speed/ Pacing
      • Sayings
      • Laugh

    Shout-Outs:

    Geek Girls Rule

    • After we recorded and called Mickey etc. out for not putting out a show, they went and did. So yes, there is a more recent episode now.

    Reminders-

    We put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-26-gender-bending-and-playing-what-you-aint-player-04/feed/ 1 accents,acting,bromance,burning wheel,D&D,geek girls rule,gender,jihad,Player advice,politics,Saturday Night Live,vocal tips Happy Election Day! Only a couple of days! JiffyCon is this Saturday!! Enjoy new, indie games and play with the Gameologists! www.jiffycon.com Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. Happy Election Day! Only a couple of days! JiffyCon is this Saturday!! Enjoy new, indie games and play with the Gameologists! www.jiffycon.com Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. We've been watching a lot of Saturday Night Live clips... Gov. Palin and Senator Clinton Gov. Palin squares off with Couric Mark Wahlberg Fix it! Dudes playing chicks/ Playing something you ain't: Don't be a douche Be Sensitive Just be the character Don't have it be the only interesting aspect of the character Don't constantly talk about being a _____ Sex is not the only decision a girl makes Playing a girl- something different: Mother Old Lady Maiden Historical game stereotype Intrepid Girl Reporter Empty Nester Other things you ain't: Gays/ Straights Philosophically or ethically different Kids The "Other" Crazy Elderly Disabled Bromance Getting Into Character: Stanislavski's System What is your character's goal? Aspects of the character? Use your memory "bag" Change your voice: Pitch Tone Volume Speed/ Pacing Sayings Laugh Shout-Outs: Geek Girls Rule After we recorded and called Mickey etc. out for not putting out a show, they went and did. So yes, there is a more recent episode now. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #25: Horror Tropes (Setting 05) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-25-horror-tropes-setting-05/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-25-horror-tropes-setting-05/#comments Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:06:22 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=56 Note:

    In celebration of our second “quarter” we are changing the format very slightly of the shows. Can you spot the difference?

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Our Fears

    • Whale captured on video –Meg admits to her paranoia of whales. This video she had to watch through her fingers.
    • Oarfish- They just shouldn’t be. Freaky.
    • Parasites- Josh. He’s infected.
    • Zombies- Zeke. He’s prepared, are you?

    1. Cthulhonic

    2. The Undead

    3. The Siren

    4. Sidhe

    5. Nature

    6. Technological

    7. Madness

    8. Odd

    9. Primal Horror

    Bonus!

    • We each list our scariest creatures that weren’t mentioned.

    Reminders-

    We put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.


    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-25-horror-tropes-setting-05/feed/ 0 advice,cthulhu,D&D,dogs in the vineyard,fear,ghosts,halloween,horror,movies,mythos,opening snippet,scare Note: In celebration of our second "quarter" we are changing the format very slightly of the shows. Can you spot the difference? Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. Note: In celebration of our second "quarter" we are changing the format very slightly of the shows. Can you spot the difference? Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Walking on Air This is Halloween In Japanese (stumbled on this one) In Russian (we think this is the creepiest. Some of the voices are really scary, especially the creature under the stairs) Our Fears Whale captured on video --Meg admits to her paranoia of whales. This video she had to watch through her fingers. Oarfish- They just shouldn't be. Freaky. Parasites- Josh. He's infected. Zombies- Zeke. He's prepared, are you? 1. Cthulhonic Cthulhu Mythos Chaosium's Call of Cthulu Meg's fear of sea creatures comes in here. 2. The Undead Halloween (a poster on our forum)'s excellent post about "contrasting for horror". 28 Days Later Cell by Stephen King Serenity Terminator 3. The Siren The Mythological Siren Dracula Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? Little Shop of Horrors The Firm Star Wars 4. Sidhe The Celtic Sidhe The Borg The cenobites The Predator The Gripping Hand Ghosts 5. Nature Jaws Razorback The Perfect Storm Killer Bees Cujo The Happening totally sucked :( Those freaky whales! 6. Technological The Ring Security Systems gone awry 2001: A Space Odyssey Midnight Meat Train 7. Madness The Creepy Events Thread @ WOTC The Creepy Events Thread @ BG Possessions Sixth Sense Dogs in the Vineyard Werewolves 8. Odd Parallel Worlds Sound of Thunder Sliders Knee Penises Stepford Wives The Matrix The Lottery Lost Boys 9. Primal Horror Jersey Devil Windigo Kelpie Spring-heeled Jack The Black Dog Bonus! We each list our scariest creatures that weren't mentioned. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #24: Rule 0 (System 03) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-24-rule-0-system-03/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-24-rule-0-system-03/#comments Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:51:15 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=55 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    News:

    • Couple of days left for the Secret Code Contest! Get your entries in by October 17th!
    • We make an apology of sorts for one of the items listed in the “7 Things We Hate” episode.
    • JiffyCon! We meant to have a news item about this and … oops. But at least it’s written! JiffyCon is almost here- we’re still looking for another GM or two, specializing in little known or Indie Games, and of course would love to see anyone who can make it to come! We’ll help you… nay… guarantee you’ll have a good time!

    Icebreaker:

    • Josh went to Providence Anime Conference and rubs it in our face. Won some cool (and sexy) prizes including one for being voted “Biggest Whore”

    Douchebag of the Week:

    • The Sycophant

    Main Topic:

    Rule Zero

    • Rule 0 etymology and definition
    • Oberoni Fallacy
    • House Rules used to mean:
      • Game Design
      • Modding
      • World Building
      • House Rules
    • Corner Cases
    • Fudging Rolls
    • GM= God?
    • Cows… From… Space!

    Commercial Break

    The Brilliant Gameologists’ Message Boards are sure to cure whatever ails you!  Did you know we have areas for:

    Almost better than Porn!

    Random Plugs:

    Oberoni Fallacy- as originally stated:

    Originally posted by Oberoni on the D&D general board July 23, 2002:

    This my my take on the issue

    Let’s say Bob the board member makes the assertion:

    “There is an inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue with Rule X.”

    Several correct replies can be given:

    • “I agree, there is an inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue with Rule X.”
    • “I agree, and it is easily solvable by changing the following part of Rule X.”
    • “I disagree, you’ve merely misinterpreted part of Rule X. If you reread this part of Rule X, you will see there is no inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue.”

    Okay, I hope you’re with me so far.
    There is, however, an incorrect reply:

    • “There is no inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue with Rule X, because you can always Rule 0 the inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue.“

    Now, this incorrect reply does not in truth agree with or dispute the original statement in any way, shape, or form.

    It actually contradicts itself–the first part of the statement says there is no problem, while the last part proposes a generic fix to the “non-problem.”

    It doesn’t follow the rules of debate and discussion, and thus should never be used.

    Simple enough.

    Reminders-

    We put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-24-rule-0-system-03/feed/ 3 contest,conventions,dorsal vagina,house rule,jargon,jiffycon,message boards,oberoni,providence anime conference,rule 0,scophant,secret code contest Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Probably the Funniest Cat Video You'll Ever See --Hilarious. Thanks to Dan2 on our boards for linking it in this thread! News: Couple of days left for the Secret Code Contest! Get your entries in by October 17th! We make an apology of sorts for one of the items listed in the "7 Things We Hate" episode. JiffyCon! We meant to have a news item about this and ... oops. But at least it's written! JiffyCon is almost here- we're still looking for another GM or two, specializing in little known or Indie Games, and of course would love to see anyone who can make it to come! We'll help you... nay... guarantee you'll have a good time! Icebreaker: Josh went to Providence Anime Conference and rubs it in our face. Won some cool (and sexy) prizes including one for being voted "Biggest Whore" Douchebag of the Week: The Sycophant Main Topic: Rule Zero Rule 0 etymology and definition Oberoni Fallacy House Rules used to mean: Game Design Modding World Building House Rules Corner Cases Fudging Rolls GM= God? Cows... From... Space! Commercial Break The Brilliant Gameologists' Message Boards are sure to cure whatever ails you!  Did you know we have areas for: Talking about the Show including giving ideas for future episodes Off-Topic Fun (including Media, Cons, and politics) Min/Maxing! Non- RPG tabletop games Mature Topics Play by Post Almost better than Porn! Random Plugs: Oberoni Fallacy- as originally stated: Originally posted by Oberoni on the D&D general board July 23, 2002: This my my take on the issue Let's say Bob the board member makes the assertion: "There is an inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue with Rule X." Several correct replies can be given: "I agree, there is an inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue with Rule X." "I agree, and it is easily solvable by changing the following part of Rule X." "I disagree, you've merely misinterpreted part of Rule X. If you reread this part of Rule X, you will see there is no inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue." Okay, I hope you're with me so far. There is, however, an incorrect reply: "There is no inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue with Rule X, because you can always Rule 0 the inconsistency/loophole/mechanics issue." Now, this incorrect reply does not in truth agree with or dispute the original statement in any way, shape, or form. It actually contradicts itself--the first part of the statement says there is no problem, while the last part proposes a generic fix to the "non-problem." It doesn't follow the rules of debate and discussion, and thus should never be used. Simple enough. Reminders- We put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #22: Drunk Cast- Part 1 (Bonus 03) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-22-drunk-cast-part-1-bonus-03/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-22-drunk-cast-part-1-bonus-03/#comments Mon, 06 Oct 2008 04:54:47 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=54 NEWS: Reminder that the Secret Code Contest entries are due by October 17th!

    Warm-Up:

    This episode is our response to Radio Free Hipster’s “September is Drunken Podcasting Month”.  Therefore, our warm-up included:

    • 4 22-oz beers
    • Lots of Rumplemintz
    • Several Meghan-tini’s
    • Jagermeister
    • Eagle Reserve Whiskey

    We attempted to have this be Drunken Podcasting, not wasted Podcasting, but one of us utterly failed.  (Hint- it was Meg)

    As a result, before listening, read the following warning:

    This episode is NOT a normal episode.  There is actually VERY LITTLE gaming discussion and an overabundance of hanky-panky talk.  The subtitle of this episode should be “Jesus Likes Anal”.  If that turns you off, you may not want to listen.  Fair warning.

    Also, this show has little editing.  We left in some of the mistakes and re-records on purpose.  A LOT was cut though.  Mostly because it was just TOO off topic but also a lot more that was far too sexual and personal.  We may put those clips together or the full thing for some secret bonus prize at some point.  If you’d like to hear the entire thing, let us know!

    Icebreaker:

    Our favorite fake holidays:

    Before recording we had planned to talk about Talk Like a Pirate Day as it too was in September but … well… drunk, remember?

    Main Topic:

    Drinking while Gaming.  This is the first 1/10th  of the conversation.  We started to talk about drinking at conventions but didn’t really get anywhere with it.

    Random Plugs:

    Reminder- we put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!  She twittered while recording as well so go back and check them out!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is explicit! It is NOT work safe.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-22-drunk-cast-part-1-bonus-03/feed/ 0 accidental survivors,cam banks,drunk,fake holidays,Fear the Boot,hanky-panky,jamie chambers,podgecast NEWS: Reminder that the Secret Code Contest entries are due by October 17th! Warm-Up: This episode is our response to Radio Free Hipster's "September is Drunken Podcasting Month".  Therefore, our warm-up included: - 4 22-oz beers Lots of Rumplemin... NEWS: Reminder that the Secret Code Contest entries are due by October 17th! Warm-Up: This episode is our response to Radio Free Hipster's "September is Drunken Podcasting Month".  Therefore, our warm-up included: 4 22-oz beers Lots of Rumplemintz Several Meghan-tini's Jagermeister Eagle Reserve Whiskey We attempted to have this be Drunken Podcasting, not wasted Podcasting, but one of us utterly failed.  (Hint- it was Meg) As a result, before listening, read the following warning: This episode is NOT a normal episode.  There is actually VERY LITTLE gaming discussion and an overabundance of hanky-panky talk.  The subtitle of this episode should be "Jesus Likes Anal".  If that turns you off, you may not want to listen.  Fair warning. Also, this show has little editing.  We left in some of the mistakes and re-records on purpose.  A LOT was cut though.  Mostly because it was just TOO off topic but also a lot more that was far too sexual and personal.  We may put those clips together or the full thing for some secret bonus prize at some point.  If you'd like to hear the entire thing, let us know! Icebreaker: Our favorite fake holidays: Festivus Steak and BJ Day Feb 14th (Reimagined) Indian Fighting Day World Wide Wing Night Before recording we had planned to talk about Talk Like a Pirate Day as it too was in September but ... well... drunk, remember? Main Topic: Drinking while Gaming.  This is the first 1/10th  of the conversation.  We started to talk about drinking at conventions but didn't really get anywhere with it. Random Plugs: The Accidental Survivors. Sorry guys! The drunk thread Meghan was posting to while recording Reminder- we put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out!  She twittered while recording as well so go back and check them out! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is explicit! It is NOT work safe. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #23: 7 Things We Hate About the Gameosphere (Meta 06) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-23-7-things-we-hate-about-the-gameosphere-meta-06/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-23-7-things-we-hate-about-the-gameosphere-meta-06/#comments Sun, 28 Sep 2008 11:59:59 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=52 This episode is part of the Secret Code Contest! Get your entries in by October 17th!

    Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    • Since we’re doing a contest with 4 other podcasts, we thought it only appropriate to introduce you to them! And what better way to meet them than by a gameshow. Introducing the first episode of “Who Wants to Date a Gaming Podcaster?” with your host, Chaz!

    Douchebag of the Week:

    • The Boardtard

    Main Topic:

    The 7 Things We Hate About the Gameosphere

    1. Douchebaggery
    2. Ed Greenwood
    3. Video “Gamers”
    4. World of Darkness
    5. Gaming Reviews
    6. Fear the Boot
    7. … you’ll have to listen to find out!

    Random Plugs:

    Reminder- we put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!

    Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is roughly PG-13′ish rated. Our usual episodes are Explicit but we tried to stay “clean” with this one, though it still may not be work safe.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-23-7-things-we-hate-about-the-gameosphere-meta-06/feed/ 4 atomic array,Changling the Lost,contest,douchebag,Douchebaggery,Ed Greenwood,ENnies,Fear the Boot,Forgotten Realms,Gamer,Hate,Hatorade This episode is part of the Secret Code Contest! Get your entries in by October 17th! Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, This episode is part of the Secret Code Contest! Get your entries in by October 17th! Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. The Easter Bunny Hates You --Hilarious. Thanks to bhu on our boards for linking it in this thread! Icebreaker: Since we're doing a contest with 4 other podcasts, we thought it only appropriate to introduce you to them! And what better way to meet them than by a gameshow. Introducing the first episode of "Who Wants to Date a Gaming Podcaster?" with your host, Chaz! Douchebag of the Week: The Boardtard Main Topic: The 7 Things We Hate About the Gameosphere Douchebaggery Ed Greenwood Video "Gamers" World of Darkness Gaming Reviews Fear the Boot ... you'll have to listen to find out! Random Plugs: The Bad Astronomer debates Joe Rogan about the Moon landing This Modern Death Reminder- we put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out! Email us at GM@BrilliantGameologists.com Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is roughly PG-13'ish rated. Our usual episodes are Explicit but we tried to stay "clean" with this one, though it still may not be work safe. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #21: Don’t be the Dwarfs (Player 03) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-21-dont-be-the-dwarfs/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-21-dont-be-the-dwarfs/#comments Mon, 22 Sep 2008 05:38:05 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=51 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    • Gaybar by Electric 6 for 2 reasons. 1) We love Electric 6 and are stocked about going to see them (again) on Fri 11/21in Cambridge MA at the Middle East. 2) Hotpants. It reminds us of one of the Brilliant Fanologists at Gencon who wore hotpants for Meg. Thanks Woodrow.

    Icebreaker:

    • DragonCon recap. Meg represented the Brilliant Gameologists at DragonCon and the Parsec Awards. Big thanks to Adam from the Podgecast for offering up hotel space and to Cam Banks from Margaret Weis Productions for a great conversation and Jamie Chambers, also of MWP, for socializing even though we trashed your game.

    Douchebag of the Week:

    • +1 Guy

    Main Topic:

    Don’t be the 7 Dwarfs

    1. Sleepy
    2. Sneezy
    3. Bashful
    4. Dopey
    5. Grumpy
    6. Happy
    7. Doc

    Plugs

    Reminder- we put show updates and random goodies on Meg’s Twitter. Don’t miss out!

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-21-dont-be-the-dwarfs/feed/ 0 adult swim,advice,DragonCon,firefly,jamie chambers,Josh is an asshole,misspent youth,parsec awards,podgecast,Robert Bohl Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Gaybar by Electric 6 for 2 reasons. 1) We love Electric 6 and are stocked about going to see them (again) on Fri 11/21in Cambridge MA at the Middle East. 2) Hotpants. It reminds us of one of the Brilliant Fanologists at Gencon who wore hotpants for Meg. Thanks Woodrow. Icebreaker: DragonCon recap. Meg represented the Brilliant Gameologists at DragonCon and the Parsec Awards. Big thanks to Adam from the Podgecast for offering up hotel space and to Cam Banks from Margaret Weis Productions for a great conversation and Jamie Chambers, also of MWP, for socializing even though we trashed your game. Listen to Meg talk about DragonCon during the con on the Podgecast DragonCon Recap! Douchebag of the Week: +1 Guy Main Topic: Don't be the 7 Dwarfs Sleepy Sneezy Bashful Dopey Grumpy Happy Doc Plugs Misspent Youth by Robert Bohl DragonCon TV New England Browncoat Yahoo Group Reminder- we put show updates and random goodies on Meg's Twitter. Don't miss out! Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #20: GenCon Recap (Meta 05) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-20-gencon-recap/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-20-gencon-recap/#comments Mon, 08 Sep 2008 02:09:30 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=50 We’re back from GenCon! It’s taken a while to recover. We fully admit to being the last podcast to put out their GenCon recap, but hopefully it was worth it.

    We talked about quite a few products in this episode:

    Favorite Publishers:

    Cam Banks and Jamie Chambers from Margaret Weis Productions

    Pelgrane Press with Robin Laws for the Gumshoe System

    Fantasy Flight Games for Grimm

    Paradigm Concepts for Witch Hunter: The Invisible World

    McNeil Designs for Reader’s Digest vocab game

    Dark Matter for Epic RPG

    Interesting Buys:

    Mispent Youth by Robert Bohl

    Factions at War by Other Court Games

    Cool People:

    Luke Meyer from The Podgecast

    Daniel Perez from The Gamer Traveler and The Digital Front

    Rob and Fraser from The Accidental Survivors

    NPH

    The Brilliant Fanologists!

    The ENies:

    We gave the prepared statement:

    “The ENnies need to make serious format changes if they’d like to be taken seriously as an award.”

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread and find out how you can get your very own boob-curve business cards!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-20-gencon-recap/feed/ 5 accidental survivors,bear vs. robot,Brilliant Fanologists,cam banks,conventions,daniel perez,DragonSnack,ENnies,Epic RPG,Factions at War,gencon,grimm We're back from GenCon! It's taken a while to recover. We fully admit to being the last podcast to put out their GenCon recap, but hopefully it was worth it. - We talked about quite a few products in this episode: - Favorite Publishers: - Cam Banks a... We're back from GenCon! It's taken a while to recover. We fully admit to being the last podcast to put out their GenCon recap, but hopefully it was worth it. We talked about quite a few products in this episode: Favorite Publishers: Cam Banks and Jamie Chambers from Margaret Weis Productions Pelgrane Press with Robin Laws for the Gumshoe System Fantasy Flight Games for Grimm Paradigm Concepts for Witch Hunter: The Invisible World McNeil Designs for Reader's Digest vocab game Dark Matter for Epic RPG Interesting Buys: Mispent Youth by Robert Bohl Factions at War by Other Court Games Cool People: Luke Meyer from The Podgecast Daniel Perez from The Gamer Traveler and The Digital Front Rob and Fraser from The Accidental Survivors NPH The Brilliant Fanologists! The ENies: We gave the prepared statement: "The ENnies need to make serious format changes if they'd like to be taken seriously as an award." Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread and find out how you can get your very own boob-curve business cards! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #8: Ennies Lightning Round! http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-8-ennies-lightning-round/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-8-ennies-lightning-round/#comments Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:53:29 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=48 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    • The Olympics!  We’re big fans and discuss our favorite events.  Meg reminds everyone she has a vag.

    Review Guidelines:

    Good, Bad, Wintry Mix

    • Good:
      • Elegant
      • Fuckin’ A
      • Fiddly Bits
    • Bad:
      • Idiot
      • Full of Crap
      • Asshole

    Our rating scale is:

    • 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one.
    • 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a “main game” plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you
    • 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one
    • 0= Don’t buy it.

    Best Writing:

    Nominees:

    The Good:

    • Trail of Cthulhu: Elegant, Fuckin’ A writing, and some really good Fiddly Bits.  Rating: 1
    • Grimm: Fuckin’ A.  Rating: 3

    Wintry Mix:

    • Monsters and Other Childish Things: Some Fuckin’ A, but Full of Shit too.  Rating: 10

    Bad:

    • Changeling: The Lost: Idiot, Full of Shit, and Asshole.  Rating: 0

    Can’t even Review:

    • Two-Fisted Tales: This should not have been in this category.  Not good nor bad.  Just like the writing in every other book. Rating:10

    Best Rules:

    Nominees:

    Good:

    • Aces and Eights: Fiddly Bits.  So so so many fiddly bits. Rating: 1
    • Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition: Fuckin’ A and Elegant. Rating:1

    Wintry Mix:

    • Witchhunter:  The Invisible World: Fuckin’ A, Fiddly Bits, but also Asshole. Rating:3
    • Trail of Cthulhu: Wish the game had been “completed”.  Fuckin’ A, Fiddly Bits, but also Asshole. Rating:1

    Bad:

    • Epic Roleplaying Game Manual: Needs refinement and an overhaul.  Not fair to review at this time. Rating:10

    Best Game:

    Good:

    • Aces and Eights: Fuckin’ A, Fiddly Bits, Elegant. Rating:1
    • Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition: Elegant, Fuckin’ A. Rating:1

    Wintry Mix:

    • Witchhunter:  The Invisible World: Elegant, Full of Shit. Rating:3
    • Monsters and Other Childish Things: Fuckin’ A, Asshole. Rating:10

    Bad:

    • Og, Full of Shit, Asshole. Rating:10

    Product of the Year:

    News:

    1. Reminder: The Brilliant Gameologists are leading 3 seminars at GenCon! If you’re going, you won’t want to miss it.

    Gamers in the Press: Blogs, Podcasts, and Print at GenCon

    http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-8-ennies-lightning-round/feed/ 3 Aces & Eights,Changeling the Lost,ennines,Epic RPG,grimm,Monsters and other Childish Things,Og,reviews,Saga,Savage World,Solomon Kane,Trail of Cthulhu Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Listened to a couple of songs- Mirah's The Garden and Robyn's Cobrastyle.  Have nothing to do with anything, but they got us in the mood. Icebreaker: The Olympics!  We're big fans and discuss our favorite events.  Meg reminds everyone she has a vag. Review Guidelines: Good, Bad, Wintry Mix Good: Elegant Fuckin' A Fiddly Bits Bad: Idiot Full of Crap Asshole Our rating scale is: 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one. 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a "main game" plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one 0= Don't buy it. Best Writing: Nominees: Changeling: The Lost, White Wolf Publishing Monsters and Other Childish Things, Arc Dream Publishing Two-Fisted Tales, Precis Intermedia Grimm, Fantasy Flight Games Trail of Cthulhu, Pelgrane Press Honorable Mention:  All Tomorrow's Zombies!, Eden Studios The Good: Trail of Cthulhu: Elegant, Fuckin' A writing, and some really good Fiddly Bits.  Rating: 1 Grimm: Fuckin' A.  Rating: 3 Wintry Mix: Monsters and Other Childish Things: Some Fuckin' A, but Full of Shit too.  Rating: 10 Bad: Changeling: The Lost: Idiot, Full of Shit, and Asshole.  Rating: 0 Can't even Review: Two-Fisted Tales: This should not have been in this category.  Not good nor bad.  Just like the writing in every other book. Rating:10 Best Rules: Nominees: Aces and Eights, Kenzer & Company Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition, Wizards of the Coast Witchhunter:  The Invisible World, Paradigm Concepts Epic Roleplaying Game Manual, Dark Matter Studios Trail of Cthulhu, Pelgrane Press Honorable Mention:  Traveller, Mongoose Publishing Good: Aces and Eights: Fiddly Bits.  So so so many fiddly bits. Rating: 1 Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition: Fuckin' A and Elegant. Rating:1 Wintry Mix: Witchhunter:  The Invisible World: Fuckin' A, Fiddly Bits, but also Asshole. Rating:3 Trail of Cthulhu: Wish the game had been "completed".  Fuckin' A, Fiddly Bits, but also Asshole. Rating:1 Bad: Epic Roleplaying Game Manual: Needs refinement and an overhaul.  Not fair to review at this time. Rating:10 Best Game: Aces and Eights, Kenzer & Company Og, Firefly Games Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition, Wizards of the Coast Monsters and Other Childish Things, Arc Dream Publishing Witchhunter:  The Invisible World, Paradigm Concepts Good: Aces and Eights: Fuckin' A, Fiddly Bits, Elegant. Rating:1 Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition: Elegant, Fuckin' A. Rating:1 Wintry Mix: Witchhunter:  The Invisible World: Elegant, Full of Shit. Rating:3 Monsters and Other Childish Things: Fuckin' A, Asshole. Rating:10 Bad: Og, Full of Shit, Asshole. Rating:10 Product of the Year: Aces and Eights, Kenzer & Company Josh and Zeke hope this wins.  Rating: 1 Star Wars Roleplaying Game Saga Edition, Wizards of the Coast Meg hopes this wins: Rating: 1 The Savage World of Solomon Kane, Pinnacle Entertainment Group Rating: 1 Grimm, Fantasy Flight Games Rating: 3 Witchhunter:  The Invisible World, Paradigm Concepts Rating: 3 Monsters and Other Childish Things, Arc Dream Publishing Rating: 10 Changeling:  The Lost, White Wolf Publishing Rating: 0 Pirate's Guide to Freeport, Green Ronin Publishing Didn't get the product in time to review Pathfinder #8: Seven Days to the Grave, Paizo Publishing Didn't review. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #19: I Will Turn This Game Around! (GM 04) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-19-i-will-turn-this-game-around-gm-04/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-19-i-will-turn-this-game-around-gm-04/#comments Sun, 27 Jul 2008 10:19:11 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=46 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    • TV character that would suck to play with

    Douchebag of the Week:

    • The Secret Keeper

    Main Topic:

    4 Steps in the 12 step Healing Process

    Strategies for healing a diseased group, or to build cohesion in an already healthy group

    1. Choosing the Right Game

    • D&D 4th Edition
    • Spirit of the Century
    • Dogs in the Vineyard
    • Bad Choice: Burning Wheel

    Side conversation:

    The 4 roles in D&D 4e compared with the 4 Ninja Turtles:

    • Leader: Leonardo
    • Controller: Donatello
    • Striker:Raphael
    • Defender: Michelangelo

    2.  Making a Cohesive Character

    3. Running the Game so everyone plays nicely

    • DM= Part Facilitator, part Antagonist
    • DMPC’s- usually bad, but if you’re gonna, do it right
    • Take time to practice the mechanics so everyone can fight together before it comes up for real

    4. Playing the Game so everyone gets along

    • Buddy System
    • Appropriate Behavior
    • Why are we together?
    • Think Win-Win

    News:

    1. Reminder: The Brilliant Gameologists are leading 3 seminars at GenCon!  If you’re going, you won’t want to miss it.

    Gamers in the Press: Blogs, Podcasts, and Print at GenCon

    http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/

    2. We are slowly but surely joining the full ranks of Web 2.0.  Check out Meg’s Twitter.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-19-i-will-turn-this-game-around-gm-04/feed/ 0 Cunt,gencon,GM Advice,Player advice,Playing,TMNT Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Purely awesome fight scene Icebreaker: TV character that would suck to play with Douchebag of the Week: The Secret Keeper Main Topic: 4 Steps in the 12 step Healing Process Strategies for healing a diseased group, or to build cohesion in an already healthy group 1. Choosing the Right Game D&D 4th Edition Spirit of the Century Dogs in the Vineyard Bad Choice: Burning Wheel Side conversation: The 4 roles in D&D 4e compared with the 4 Ninja Turtles: Leader: Leonardo Controller: Donatello Striker:Raphael Defender: Michelangelo 2.  Making a Cohesive Character Force a backstory No secrets Plug: Misspent Youth 3. Running the Game so everyone plays nicely DM= Part Facilitator, part Antagonist DMPC's- usually bad, but if you're gonna, do it right Take time to practice the mechanics so everyone can fight together before it comes up for real 4. Playing the Game so everyone gets along Buddy System Appropriate Behavior Why are we together? Think Win-Win News: 1. Reminder: The Brilliant Gameologists are leading 3 seminars at GenCon!  If you're going, you won't want to miss it. Gamers in the Press: Blogs, Podcasts, and Print at GenCon http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/ 2. We are slowly but surely joining the full ranks of Web 2.0.  Check out Meg's Twitter. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Bonus Content: A Clip Show http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-content-a-clip-show/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-content-a-clip-show/#comments Tue, 22 Jul 2008 14:39:18 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=45 To hold you over before Episode 19 is released, Bonus Content has been added to the site!

    Check out the “Promote” Page.  A “clip show” has been added for your listening enjoyment.  Share with your friends and use it to introduce new folks to the Brilliant Gameologists Podcast!  It’s a 10 minute segment that includes clips from 3 of our shows in “Year 1″- August 2007-April 30, 2008. Enjoy short clips from:

    Play like you have to!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonus-content-a-clip-show/feed/ 1     Sode #18: Scope and Boundaries (Setting 04) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-17-gaming-at-cons-bonus-02-2/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-17-gaming-at-cons-bonus-02-2/#comments Mon, 14 Jul 2008 02:35:09 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=43 Warm-Up:

    Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn’t always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we’re going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well.

    Icebreaker:

    • Favorite TV show opening songs and scenes.

    Douchebag of the Week:

    • The Braggart

    Main Topic:

    Scope and Boundaries

    • How wide or deep should you go?
    • Meg’s analogy: Establishing Shots from movies/ TV
    • Kinds of groups you can be in an RPG
    • Published Campaign worlds
    • Media Worlds (Star Wars and Superheroes)
    • Historical Settings
    • The problem with Forgotten Realms
    • What to do with this huge world setting

    Promos:

    Gamers in the Press: Blogs, Podcasts, and Print at GenCon

    http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-17-gaming-at-cons-bonus-02-2/feed/ 4 comedy,D&D,RPG,scope,tabletop games Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. Warm-Up: Each time we record, we watch a video or find a picture to get us in the mood for the episode. It doesn't always have anything to do with the episode, but frames our minds, so we're going to share so you can be appropriately framed as well. YouTube Video- 30 minutes of 90's Cartoons Icebreaker: Favorite TV show opening songs and scenes. Douchebag of the Week: The Braggart Main Topic: Scope and Boundaries How wide or deep should you go? Meg's analogy: Establishing Shots from movies/ TV Kinds of groups you can be in an RPG Published Campaign worlds Media Worlds (Star Wars and Superheroes) Historical Settings The problem with Forgotten Realms What to do with this huge world setting Promos: Gamers in the Press: Blogs, Podcasts, and Print at GenCon http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/ Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Warning: This episode is tagged Explicit and is Not Work Safe. It is intended for adult audiences. Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #17: Gaming at Cons (Bonus 02) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-17-gaming-at-cons-bonus-02/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-17-gaming-at-cons-bonus-02/#comments Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:32:11 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=40 This is a Bonus Episode which is fancy talk for “The dogs ate the shownotes so we can’t do our normal episode so we totally wung this”.

    Is wung a word? Winged?

    In this episode we discuss Gaming at Conventions. Well, that and a LOT of just banter. (This is what we’re like when we are just hanging out but this time happened to have a mic capturing it all. And only Josh had been drinking! Also, the dog did actually chew through Meg’s headphone cord so the whole experience was fairly surreal and much less organized.)

    NEWS ITEM: Brilliant Gameologists chosen to lead GenCon seminars

    PROMO: (A real one!) Gamers in the Press- Blogs, Podcasts, and Print Seminars (http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/)

    Discussion Topics:

    Games we played at JiffyCon:

    • It’s Complicated

      • Story/ Pass-the-stick game where everyone has an internal struggle and some visible manifestation.
    • Traveller
      • Old-school. Terrible system but Zeke had a ton of fun regardless.
    • Caper: A Game of Pros and Cons
      • Pull off a criminal caper. Josh’s group tried to steal Jerry Seinfield’s cars.
    • Misspent Youth
      • Meg’s dream game. Dystopian young-adult type scenarios. Game involves building the world. The Ashcan version will be available at GenCon at the Play Collective booth. The early non-official review gives this a 3 on our scale.
    • Red Sky A.M.

      • Play Space Marines and their loved-ones back home.

    Just Announced!

    The Gameologists will help organize JiffyCon Lowell- November 8, 2008 @ Middlesex Community College, Lowell, MA.

    Other stuff from this Train-Wreck:

    Wrong Hole Montage

    Independent Insurgency Podcast from Rob Bohl

    Discuss this episode on our message boards!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-17-gaming-at-cons-bonus-02/feed/ 0 arisia,gaming,gencon,jiffycon,rpgs,tabletop games This is a Bonus Episode which is fancy talk for "The dogs ate the shownotes so we can't do our normal episode so we totally wung this". - Is wung a word? Winged? - In this episode we discuss Gaming at Conventions. Well, that and a LOT of just banter. This is a Bonus Episode which is fancy talk for "The dogs ate the shownotes so we can't do our normal episode so we totally wung this". Is wung a word? Winged? In this episode we discuss Gaming at Conventions. Well, that and a LOT of just banter. (This is what we're like when we are just hanging out but this time happened to have a mic capturing it all. And only Josh had been drinking! Also, the dog did actually chew through Meg's headphone cord so the whole experience was fairly surreal and much less organized.) NEWS ITEM: Brilliant Gameologists chosen to lead GenCon seminars PROMO: (A real one!) Gamers in the Press- Blogs, Podcasts, and Print Seminars (http://www.pulpgamer.com/gencon/) Discussion Topics: Gaming at GenCon: GenCon Indy Gaming at Small Conventions: Arisia Gaming at Indy Game/ Ashcan Venues: JiffyCon Games we played at JiffyCon: It's Complicated Story/ Pass-the-stick game where everyone has an internal struggle and some visible manifestation. Traveller Old-school. Terrible system but Zeke had a ton of fun regardless. Caper: A Game of Pros and Cons Pull off a criminal caper. Josh's group tried to steal Jerry Seinfield's cars. Misspent Youth Meg's dream game. Dystopian young-adult type scenarios. Game involves building the world. The Ashcan version will be available at GenCon at the Play Collective booth. The early non-official review gives this a 3 on our scale. Red Sky A.M. Play Space Marines and their loved-ones back home. Just Announced! The Gameologists will help organize JiffyCon Lowell- November 8, 2008 @ Middlesex Community College, Lowell, MA. Other stuff from this Train-Wreck: Wrong Hole Montage Independent Insurgency Podcast from Rob Bohl Discuss this episode on our message boards! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #16: Peritextual Elements of RPGs (Meta04) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-16-peritextual-elements-of-rpgs-meta04/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-16-peritextual-elements-of-rpgs-meta04/#comments Sun, 22 Jun 2008 23:05:17 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=37 Nerd Up!

    In this episode we look at the peritextual elements of quite a few books– all of the things that aren’t the content– and how they relate to the feel of the book and our impressions about it.

    The links all show example pictures to help illustrate the point.  There are a few still to come, but this is a pretty comprehensive list as is!  Some of the pictures are from the publisher and some I took myself.

    Size and Shape

    D&D 4th Edition- The standard in gaming. Hardcover, 8.5×11 inches. 4th Edition’s difference is that the 3 books come in a handy-dandy sleeve.

    Hero 5th Edition Revised- The same shape as D&D but text-book thick.

    Burning Wheel- 5×7 and softcover. Still has same number of pages as D&D, but they are mini pages. Makes the book much more portable.

    Savage Worlds: Explorer’s Edition- Also softcover, but a bit longer and wider than Burning Wheel (which means neat, orderly shelving will be screwy).

    Star Wars Saga- A square. Made to fit on bookstore’s shelves.

    Covers

    Rifts- Pretty picture, shows action, clear title, publisher, and author, and of course, boobies.

    Paranoia XP- comical, funny, bright colors and the back cover entirely in the style of Paranoia. Draws in new people but also provides a callback to previous players.

    The Savage World of Solomon Kane- Only a few words, but great illustration and the glossy and matte finish make Meg happy.

    Cover opened to see front and back together

    Dread- Extremely simple but sets the stage beautifully. A bloody thumbprint? What’s not to love?

    Burning Wheel- Red on Red. Hard to see, confusing, boring. Doesn’t say anything about the game.

    The Trail of Cthulhu - Green on green, but spooky, mysterious

    GURPS: Alpha Century- cover of book is cover of Sid Meier’s video game. Good marketing if you like the video game (which we did).

    Front Matter

    First few pages of a book before the content actually starts. Can include publication information, credits, acknowledgments, table of contents, and introduction

    • Pastedown- the page pasted to the inside of the cover (hardcover only)
    • Flyleaf- the page opposite the pastedown

    Spirit of the Century- has fun with the credits

    Grimm- Pastedown and Flyleaf are at least red. Introduction WAY too long (download full introduction).

    Deadlands Reloaded- Personal acknowledgments, Font in table of contents very appropriate and there is “white space” so text doesn’t feel claustrophobic. Introduction is a old-timely newspaper format. Back Cover

    Dark Heresy, Warhammer 40,000- Pastedown and Flyleaf show an illustration of a star map

    Borders:

    Are illustrations confined in a border to make it feel like you are looking as an voyeur, or do the touch the edge of the page to draw you in?

    • Bleed- when the illustration touches the edge of a page
    • Full Bleed- when all illustrations touch all edges

    Deadlands Reloaded- full bleed

    d20 Future- Standard. Page number in border (on side)

    GURPS- Transhuman Space- Dark border with white boxes with text. Dark borders give it a space theme.

    Grimm (download of first chapter)- Very appropriate, very approprite. Page numbers in spider body and intricate

    Expeditious Retreat: Magical Society of Ecology and Culture and Savage Worlds Explorer’s Edition- Old timey paper feel to border.

    Interesting Content

    Cyberspace. Almost whole book in table or chart. Lower corner of each page gives extra material to book in terms of a year-by-year timeline.

    Nightbane- Very first thing in book is a warning to prevent claims of Satanism.

    Earthdawn- All peritextual elements completely vanilla (written in 1995) except two full pages of punch-out cardstock cards.

    Illustrations

    Pictures in books should show you things you may play, things you may fight or goals or ideas you may have as well as set the stage for the book. The feel also needs to be consistent throughout. The media used can change, but don’t mix styles!

    D&D 4th Edition- Player’s Handbook has detailed pictures of the types of characters you are going to play (Person), the Dungeon Master’s Guide shows places you will go (Place), and the Monster Manual shows the things you are going to fight (Things).

    Mutants and Masterminds- Very comic book feel to illustrations, some complete with speech bubbles. Very consistent throughout.

    Dark Heresy, Warhammer 40,000- Extremely detailed, dark, gritty illustrations.

    Rifts- almost entirely black and white inking. Art very evocative of the world, but not enough of it and the color plates in the middle of the book don’t match.

    Serenity- Beautiful cover, but almost all of “illustrations” are screen caps from the movie. Says not, “We’re trying to adapt the movie” but “We’re trying to make the movie.” Borders are good except top of every page says “Serenity the Role Playing Game”. Seems too self-congratulatory and constantly reminds us it is “official“.

    Star Wars Saga- nice mix of screencaps and illustrations, but again, too much of a mix of styles.

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-16-peritextual-elements-of-rpgs-meta04/feed/ 0 4e,book elements,burning wheel,cthulhu,D&D,d20 Future,Dread,Earthdawn,grimm,GURPS,Mutants and Masterminds,Nightbane Nerd Up! - In this episode we look at the peritextual elements of quite a few books-- all of the things that aren't the content-- and how they relate to the feel of the book and our impressions about it. - The links all show example pictures to help il... Nerd Up! In this episode we look at the peritextual elements of quite a few books-- all of the things that aren't the content-- and how they relate to the feel of the book and our impressions about it. The links all show example pictures to help illustrate the point.  There are a few still to come, but this is a pretty comprehensive list as is!  Some of the pictures are from the publisher and some I took myself. Size and Shape D&D 4th Edition- The standard in gaming. Hardcover, 8.5x11 inches. 4th Edition's difference is that the 3 books come in a handy-dandy sleeve. Hero 5th Edition Revised- The same shape as D&D but text-book thick. Burning Wheel- 5x7 and softcover. Still has same number of pages as D&D, but they are mini pages. Makes the book much more portable. Savage Worlds: Explorer's Edition- Also softcover, but a bit longer and wider than Burning Wheel (which means neat, orderly shelving will be screwy). Star Wars Saga- A square. Made to fit on bookstore's shelves. Covers Rifts- Pretty picture, shows action, clear title, publisher, and author, and of course, boobies. Paranoia XP- comical, funny, bright colors and the back cover entirely in the style of Paranoia. Draws in new people but also provides a callback to previous players. The Savage World of Solomon Kane- Only a few words, but great illustration and the glossy and matte finish make Meg happy. Cover opened to see front and back together Dread- Extremely simple but sets the stage beautifully. A bloody thumbprint? What's not to love? Burning Wheel- Red on Red. Hard to see, confusing, boring. Doesn't say anything about the game. The Trail of Cthulhu - Green on green, but spooky, mysterious GURPS: Alpha Century- cover of book is cover of Sid Meier's video game. Good marketing if you like the video game (which we did). Front Matter First few pages of a book before the content actually starts. Can include publication information, credits, acknowledgments, table of contents, and introduction Pastedown- the page pasted to the inside of the cover (hardcover only) Flyleaf- the page opposite the pastedown Spirit of the Century- has fun with the credits Grimm- Pastedown and Flyleaf are at least red. Introduction WAY too long (download full introduction). Deadlands Reloaded- Personal acknowledgments, Font in table of contents very appropriate and there is "white space" so text doesn't feel claustrophobic. Introduction is a old-timely newspaper format. Back Cover Dark Heresy, Warhammer 40,000- Pastedown and Flyleaf show an illustration of a star map Borders: Are illustrations confined in a border to make it feel like you are looking as an voyeur, or do the touch the edge of the page to draw you in? Bleed- when the illustration touches the edge of a page Full Bleed- when all illustrations touch all edges Deadlands Reloaded- full bleed d20 Future- Standard. Page number in border (on side) GURPS- Transhuman Space- Dark border with white boxes with text. Dark borders give it a space theme. Grimm (download of first chapter)- Very appropriate, very approprite. Page numbers in spider body and intricate Expeditious Retreat: Magical Society of Ecology and Culture and Savage Worlds Explorer's Edition- Old timey paper feel to border. Interesting Content Cyberspace. Almost whole book in table or chart. Lower corner of each page gives extra material to book in terms of a year-by-year timeline. Nightbane- Very first thing in book is a warning to prevent claims of Satanism. Earthdawn- All peritextual elements completely vanilla (written in 1995) except two full pages of punch-out cardstock cards. Illustrations Pictures in books should show you things you may play, things you may fight or goals or ideas you may have as well as set the stage for the book. The feel also needs to be consistent throughout. The media used can change, but don't mix styles! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #6: Battlestar Galactica http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-6-battlestar-galactica/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-6-battlestar-galactica/#comments Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:34:28 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=36 The BG’s review BSG in the last of our full Origin’s review series.

    Battlestar Galactica is published by Margaret Weis Productions.

    Our rating scale is:

    • 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one.
    • 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a “main game” plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you
    • 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one
    • 0= Don’t buy it.

    Fair warning: we are not fans. At all. This episode is part review, part bullshit, and part GenCon stories. Listen at your own risk!

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-6-battlestar-galactica/feed/ 4 battlestar galactica,comedy,gencon The BG's review BSG in the last of our full Origin's review series. - - Battlestar Galactica is published by Margaret Weis Productions. - Our rating scale is: - 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one. The BG's review BSG in the last of our full Origin's review series. Battlestar Galactica is published by Margaret Weis Productions. Our rating scale is: 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one. 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a "main game" plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one 0= Don't buy it. Fair warning: we are not fans. At all. This episode is part review, part bullshit, and part GenCon stories. Listen at your own risk! Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #5: Faery’s Tale Deluxe http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-5-faerys-tale-deluxe/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-5-faerys-tale-deluxe/#comments Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:51:25 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=35 In our 3rd full Origin’s Review, we look at Firefly Games’ Faery’s Tale Deluxe.

    We had a lot of issues with this book. I feel it works as a structured “let’s pretend” for kids, but the concept wasn’t clear. To say that this could be for adults misses the mark.

    It has some use though, so we gave it a 10 on our rating scale:

    • 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one.
    • 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a “main game” plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you
    • 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one
    • 0= Don’t buy it.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-5-faerys-tale-deluxe/feed/ 0 comedy,faery's tale,firefly games,gaming,rpgs,tabletop games In our 3rd full Origin's Review, we look at Firefly Games' Faery's Tale Deluxe. - - We had a lot of issues with this book. I feel it works as a structured "let's pretend" for kids, but the concept wasn't clear. In our 3rd full Origin's Review, we look at Firefly Games' Faery's Tale Deluxe. We had a lot of issues with this book. I feel it works as a structured "let's pretend" for kids, but the concept wasn't clear. To say that this could be for adults misses the mark. It has some use though, so we gave it a 10 on our rating scale: 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one. 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a "main game" plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one 0= Don't buy it. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #4: Savage World of Solomon Kane http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-4-savage-world-of-solomon-kane/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-4-savage-world-of-solomon-kane/#comments Mon, 16 Jun 2008 22:11:12 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=34 In the second full Origin’s review episode, we take a look at the Savage World of Solomon Kane.

    http://www.peginc.com/games.html

    We love this one and hope it wins the Origin’s Award for best new RPG. It’s a 1 on the rating scale because this is a complete book of a game which could be a long-term campaign and it’s really interesting:

    • 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one.
    • 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a “main game” plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you
    • 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one
    • 0= Don’t buy it.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-4-savage-world-of-solomon-kane/feed/ 0 reviews,Savage Worlds In the second full Origin's review episode, we take a look at the Savage World of Solomon Kane. - - http://www.peginc.com/games.html - We love this one and hope it wins the Origin's Award for best new RPG. In the second full Origin's review episode, we take a look at the Savage World of Solomon Kane. http://www.peginc.com/games.html We love this one and hope it wins the Origin's Award for best new RPG. It's a 1 on the rating scale because this is a complete book of a game which could be a long-term campaign and it's really interesting: 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one. 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a "main game" plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one 0= Don't buy it. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #3: Grimm http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-3-grimm/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-3-grimm/#comments Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:56:57 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=33 This is the first of our full Origins’ Awards Reviews– we’ll release 1 review per day to complete the series!

    In this episode we review Grimm, published by Fantasy Flight Games.

    Grimm Cover

    We give this a “3″ on our rating scale:

    • 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one.
    • 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a “main game” plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you
    • 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one 0= Don’t buy it.

    This game would be a ton of fun for a few one shots or to pick up when you’re normal game is sidetracked for a couple of weeks. Very intesting concepts, great flavor, good production values– a good book overall. The lack of clarity and that everything is written in text blocks (I mean everything- there is not a single formula or chart in the book that says “Attack = Scrap vs Defense -> Inflict Wounds”) is insanely frustrating, but other than that, it’s a good book.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-3-grimm/feed/ 2 grimm,reviews This is the first of our full Origins' Awards Reviews-- we'll release 1 review per day to complete the series! - In this episode we review Grimm, published by Fantasy Flight Games. - - We give this a "3" on our rating scale: - 1= If you are only goi... This is the first of our full Origins' Awards Reviews-- we'll release 1 review per day to complete the series! In this episode we review Grimm, published by Fantasy Flight Games. We give this a "3" on our rating scale: 1= If you are only going to buy 1 book, get this one. 3= If you are going to buy 3 books so you have a "main game" plus a fun pickup, this is the book for you 10= If you are going to get 10 books for a bit more variety, get this one 0= Don't buy it. This game would be a ton of fun for a few one shots or to pick up when you're normal game is sidetracked for a couple of weeks. Very intesting concepts, great flavor, good production values-- a good book overall. The lack of clarity and that everything is written in text blocks (I mean everything- there is not a single formula or chart in the book that says "Attack = Scrap vs Defense -> Inflict Wounds") is insanely frustrating, but other than that, it's a good book. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #15: The Joys of Min/Maxing (MinMax02) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-15-the-joys-of-minmaxing-minmax02/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-15-the-joys-of-minmaxing-minmax02/#comments Mon, 09 Jun 2008 01:13:34 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=32 In this episode we cover the brighter side of life with min/maxing. We open with what gaming, day-to-day life, and god would be like if non min-maxed and then go into why it is advantageous to have a min/maxer as a fellow player, to have one as a player when you are GM’ing, and to be one yourself. We have an enlightening PSA from Josh and then finish with the 12 (or 4 or 20) different types of min/maxers.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-15-the-joys-of-minmaxing-minmax02/feed/ 0 D&D,min/maxing In this episode we cover the brighter side of life with min/maxing. We open with what gaming, day-to-day life, and god would be like if non min-maxed and then go into why it is advantageous to have a min/maxer as a fellow player, In this episode we cover the brighter side of life with min/maxing. We open with what gaming, day-to-day life, and god would be like if non min-maxed and then go into why it is advantageous to have a min/maxer as a fellow player, to have one as a player when you are GM'ing, and to be one yourself. We have an enlightening PSA from Josh and then finish with the 12 (or 4 or 20) different types of min/maxers. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #14: Gaming is Like… (GM 003) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-14-gaming-is-like-gm-003/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-14-gaming-is-like-gm-003/#comments Sun, 01 Jun 2008 09:49:19 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=31 Analogies are a way to illustrate a point, so listen as we compare GM’ing/ gaming to:

    • Cooking
    • Fantasy Baseball
    • Directing and Producing a Play
    • Surgery
    • Running a Business which has a Board of Directors
    • Dealing with old people
    • Teaching 7th graders
    • Alaskan crab fishing
    • Supervising a manufacturing line
    • Golfing
    • Manually masturbating caged animals for artificial insemination
    • Posting on message board about what gaming is like

    Gaming is NOT like storytelling.

    Sorry.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-14-gaming-is-like-gm-003/feed/ 2 advice,GM Advice,humor,rpgs Analogies are a way to illustrate a point, so listen as we compare GM'ing/ gaming to: - Cooking Fantasy Baseball Directing and Producing a Play Surgery Running a Business which has a Board of Directors Dealing with old people Teaching 7th... Analogies are a way to illustrate a point, so listen as we compare GM'ing/ gaming to: Cooking Fantasy Baseball Directing and Producing a Play Surgery Running a Business which has a Board of Directors Dealing with old people Teaching 7th graders Alaskan crab fishing Supervising a manufacturing line Golfing Manually masturbating caged animals for artificial insemination Posting on message board about what gaming is like Gaming is NOT like storytelling. Sorry. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #2: Origins Awards for 2007- Lightning Round! http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-2-origins-awards-for-2007-lightning-round/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-2-origins-awards-for-2007-lightning-round/#comments Sun, 25 May 2008 15:36:57 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=30 In this episode we quickly discuss and review the books nominated for the 34th Annual Origins Awards in the categories Publication, Non-Fiction and Best RPG.

    We separated each into the classic Trichotomy- The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

    The nominees are…

    PUBLICATION, NON-FICTION

    UGLY

    Grand History of the Realms Published by Wizards of the Coast Written by Brian R. James and Ed Greenwood

    No Quarter Magazine Published by Privateer Press Nathan Letsinger, editor-in-chief; Eric Cagle, editor; Josh Manderville, art director

    BAD

    Confessions of a Part-Time Sorceress: A Girl’s Guide to the Dungeons & Dragons Game Published by Wizards of the Coast Written by Shelly Mazzanoble

    GOOD

    40 Years of Gen Con Published by Atlas Games Written by Robin D. Laws

    Hobby Games: The 100 Best * Published by Green Ronin Edited by James Lowder

    * 99% Ed Greenwood Free!

    ROLEPLAYING GAME

    Ugly

    CthulhuTech Published by Mongoose Publishing Written by Matthew Grau and Fraser McKay

    Aces & Eights Published by Kenzer & Co. Written by Jolly R. Blackburn, Brian Jelke, Steve Johansson, Dave Kenzer, Jennifer Kenzer and Mark Plemmons

    Bad

    Battlestar Galactica Published by Margaret Weis Productions Written by Jamie Chambers

    Faery’s Tale Deluxe (Debatable as to which category it really belongs) Published by Firefly Games Written by Patrick Sweeney, Sandy Antunes, Christina Stiles, and Robin D. Laws

    Good

    Grimm Published by Fantasy Flight Games Written by Robert Vaughn and Christian T. Petersen

    The Savage World of Solomon Kane Published by Great White Games/Pinnacle Entertainment Group Written by Paul “Wiggy” Wade-Williams (with Shane Lacy Hensley)

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/reviewsode-2-origins-awards-for-2007-lightning-round/feed/ 3 origins,Review,RPG In this episode we quickly discuss and review the books nominated for the 34th Annual Origins Awards in the categories Publication, Non-Fiction and Best RPG. - We separated each into the classic Trichotomy- The Good, The Bad, In this episode we quickly discuss and review the books nominated for the 34th Annual Origins Awards in the categories Publication, Non-Fiction and Best RPG. We separated each into the classic Trichotomy- The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly The nominees are... PUBLICATION, NON-FICTION UGLY Grand History of the Realms Published by Wizards of the Coast Written by Brian R. James and Ed Greenwood No Quarter Magazine Published by Privateer Press Nathan Letsinger, editor-in-chief; Eric Cagle, editor; Josh Manderville, art director BAD Confessions of a Part-Time Sorceress: A Girl’s Guide to the Dungeons & Dragons Game Published by Wizards of the Coast Written by Shelly Mazzanoble GOOD 40 Years of Gen Con Published by Atlas Games Written by Robin D. Laws Hobby Games: The 100 Best * Published by Green Ronin Edited by James Lowder * 99% Ed Greenwood Free! ROLEPLAYING GAME Ugly CthulhuTech Published by Mongoose Publishing Written by Matthew Grau and Fraser McKay Aces & Eights Published by Kenzer & Co. Written by Jolly R. Blackburn, Brian Jelke, Steve Johansson, Dave Kenzer, Jennifer Kenzer and Mark Plemmons Bad Battlestar Galactica Published by Margaret Weis Productions Written by Jamie Chambers Faery’s Tale Deluxe (Debatable as to which category it really belongs) Published by Firefly Games Written by Patrick Sweeney, Sandy Antunes, Christina Stiles, and Robin D. Laws Good Grimm Published by Fantasy Flight Games Written by Robert Vaughn and Christian T. Petersen The Savage World of Solomon Kane Published by Great White Games/Pinnacle Entertainment Group Written by Paul “Wiggy” Wade-Williams (with Shane Lacy Hensley) Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #13: 7 Words You Don’t Say While Gaming (Player 002) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-13-7-words-you-dont-say-while-gaming-player-002/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-13-7-words-you-dont-say-while-gaming-player-002/#comments Sun, 18 May 2008 04:23:14 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/?p=29 The 7 Words you don’t say while gaming! Taken directly from George Carlin’s “7 Words You Can’t Say on TV”, these words are highly emotive and when you call someone one of these names at the game table, no good can come of it.

    This episode talks about why heavy emotion is detrimental to logic, what you can say instead of just calling our fellow player a retard.

    And the 7 words are…

    Drama Queen (or Rigamarole Player), Power Gamer, Rules Lawyer, Munchkin, Metagamer, Railroad, Realistic, Fair

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-13-7-words-you-dont-say-while-gaming-player-002/feed/ 0 advice,comedy,drama queen,George Carlin,metagame,min/max,munchkin,power gamer,railroad,rules lawyer The 7 Words you don’t say while gaming! Taken directly from George Carlin’s “7 Words You Can’t Say on TV”, these words are highly emotive and when you call someone one of these names at the game table, no good can come of it. The 7 Words you don’t say while gaming! Taken directly from George Carlin’s “7 Words You Can’t Say on TV”, these words are highly emotive and when you call someone one of these names at the game table, no good can come of it. This episode talks about why heavy emotion is detrimental to logic, what you can say instead of just calling our fellow player a retard. And the 7 words are… Drama Queen (or Rigamarole Player), Power Gamer, Rules Lawyer, Munchkin, Metagamer, Railroad, Realistic, Fair Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #12: Love and Sex (GM 002) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-12-love-and-sex-gm-002/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-12-love-and-sex-gm-002/#comments Sun, 11 May 2008 05:28:58 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/27 Oh Yeah. Love, Romance and Boning.

    Comprehensive Show Notes
    Discuss this topic on our Boards

    Show Notes
    0:00:00 – Episode Starts, Cue Porno Music
    0:00:56 – Secret Crushes of the Brilliant Gameologists
    0:06:32 – Douchebag of the Week: God GMs
    0:08:26 – Sex and Earth Day
    0:09:47 – The Buggery
    0:14:54 – How Far do You Go?
    0:17:30 – When is Sex and Romance Cheesy and Stupid?
    0:19:16 – When is Sex and Romance Appropriate?
    0:21:30 – Sex and Romance as Goals and Motivations
    0:22:50 – Techniques – Implied Hanky-Panky, Nike Method, Results Oriented
    0:26:00 – Courtly Love
    0:27:17 – Use the Rules of the Game (Roll the Dice)
    0:28:00 – Roll for Orgasm
    0:28:41 – Sweeper
    0:28:56 – Why Have Sex and Romance in Game?
    0:30:15 – The Feme Fatale
    0:33:00 – Men Playing Girls
    0:34:33 – Interesting character traits – Saving Yourself for Marriage, Low Standards, Unusual Sexual Partners (Goblins), Asexual, Unusual Sexual Focus (Big Bottom Girls), Love Triangle, Using Nudity for Crowd Control, Gay, Henpecked Adventurer.
    0:47:44 – Disney Realm
    0:48:18 – For the GM – Using Sex and Romance to Challenge the PCs
    0:51:00 – Sex is Fun
    0:52:20 – Can Sex Go Bad? Can There Be too Much Sex?
    0:56:02 – Can Not Having Sex Go Bad? – The Tool/Obstructionist GM
    0:59:48 – You Can’t Use Violence to Get the Girl
    1:00:27 – Recap

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-12-love-and-sex-gm-002/feed/ 0 advice,buggery,interesting characters,love,men playing girls,rape,sex Oh Yeah. Love, Romance and Boning. - Comprehensive Show Notes Discuss this topic on our Boards - - Show Notes 0:00:00 – Episode Starts, Cue Porno Music 0:00:56 – Secret Crushes of the Brilliant Gameologists 0:06:32 – Douchebag of the Week: God GMs 0:0... Oh Yeah. Love, Romance and Boning. Comprehensive Show Notes Discuss this topic on our Boards Show Notes 0:00:00 – Episode Starts, Cue Porno Music 0:00:56 – Secret Crushes of the Brilliant Gameologists 0:06:32 – Douchebag of the Week: God GMs 0:08:26 – Sex and Earth Day 0:09:47 – The Buggery 0:14:54 – How Far do You Go? 0:17:30 – When is Sex and Romance Cheesy and Stupid? 0:19:16 – When is Sex and Romance Appropriate? 0:21:30 – Sex and Romance as Goals and Motivations 0:22:50 – Techniques – Implied Hanky-Panky, Nike Method, Results Oriented 0:26:00 – Courtly Love 0:27:17 – Use the Rules of the Game (Roll the Dice) 0:28:00 – Roll for Orgasm 0:28:41 – Sweeper 0:28:56 – Why Have Sex and Romance in Game? 0:30:15 – The Feme Fatale 0:33:00 – Men Playing Girls 0:34:33 – Interesting character traits – Saving Yourself for Marriage, Low Standards, Unusual Sexual Partners (Goblins), Asexual, Unusual Sexual Focus (Big Bottom Girls), Love Triangle, Using Nudity for Crowd Control, Gay, Henpecked Adventurer. 0:47:44 – Disney Realm 0:48:18 – For the GM – Using Sex and Romance to Challenge the PCs 0:51:00 – Sex is Fun 0:52:20 – Can Sex Go Bad? Can There Be too Much Sex? 0:56:02 – Can Not Having Sex Go Bad? - The Tool/Obstructionist GM 0:59:48 – You Can't Use Violence to Get the Girl 1:00:27 – Recap Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #11: Grit (Setting 003) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-11-grit-setting-003/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-11-grit-setting-003/#comments Sun, 04 May 2008 10:49:47 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/26 The subtitle of this episode should be “Trope on a Rope”. We go into tropes of grit, examples of grit and how to insert and inflict grit into your game design.

    The follow up title should be “The Episode That Was Totally Cursed”. Several crashes meant a lot of this episode was lost several times. The re-records will do, but man did we have some funny shit the first time around. It also crashed during editing. At least it’s appropriate that the game on grit was tough, brought us to our wit’s end, and was truly just about survival.

    The audio on this one is different than others too– we recorded in mono instead of stereo as an experiment requested from our Audio Engineer. I also “levelated” it afterwards, so please provide feedback!

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-11-grit-setting-003/feed/ 6 advice,campaign planning,Episodes: Setting,grit The subtitle of this episode should be "Trope on a Rope". We go into tropes of grit, examples of grit and how to insert and inflict grit into your game design. - The follow up title should be "The Episode That Was Totally Cursed". The subtitle of this episode should be "Trope on a Rope". We go into tropes of grit, examples of grit and how to insert and inflict grit into your game design. The follow up title should be "The Episode That Was Totally Cursed". Several crashes meant a lot of this episode was lost several times. The re-records will do, but man did we have some funny shit the first time around. It also crashed during editing. At least it's appropriate that the game on grit was tough, brought us to our wit's end, and was truly just about survival. The audio on this one is different than others too-- we recorded in mono instead of stereo as an experiment requested from our Audio Engineer. I also "levelated" it afterwards, so please provide feedback! Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #10: Who Do You Owe? (Meta003) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-10-who-do-you-owe-meta003/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-10-who-do-you-owe-meta003/#comments Sun, 06 Apr 2008 22:59:47 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/25 Gaming is a drug and we addicts need to get our fix. Who is your dealer for this sweet-sweet geeky release? Do you owe them anything? The Gameologists look at publishers, discount websites, convention specials, popular hobby shops and stores and of course the Friendly Local Gaming Store and ask the question, “Who Do You Owe?”

    (Shameless plug for our favorite FLGS: Myriad Games)

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-10-who-do-you-owe-meta003/feed/ 2 Amazon,Friendly Local Gaming Store,online buying,products,WotC Gaming is a drug and we addicts need to get our fix. Who is your dealer for this sweet-sweet geeky release? Do you owe them anything? The Gameologists look at publishers, discount websites, convention specials, Gaming is a drug and we addicts need to get our fix. Who is your dealer for this sweet-sweet geeky release? Do you owe them anything? The Gameologists look at publishers, discount websites, convention specials, popular hobby shops and stores and of course the Friendly Local Gaming Store and ask the question, “Who Do You Owe?” (Shameless plug for our favorite FLGS: Myriad Games) Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     ReviewSode #2: CthulhuTech Review http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonussode-2-cthulhutech-review/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonussode-2-cthulhutech-review/#comments Sun, 30 Mar 2008 02:03:03 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/24 The Brilliant Gameologists review the CthulhuTech RPG.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/bonussode-2-cthulhutech-review/feed/ 0 cthulhu,CthulhuTech,Review The Brilliant Gameologists review the CthulhuTech RPG. - Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! The Brilliant Gameologists review the CthulhuTech RPG. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #9: MinMax Basics (MinMax 001) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-9-minmax-basics-minmax-001/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-9-minmax-basics-minmax-001/#comments Sun, 30 Mar 2008 01:33:52 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/23 DadaDUM! It’s here, our initial episode about Min/Maxing. What it is, what it isn’t, and the dangers of spelling.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-9-minmax-basics-minmax-001/feed/ 4 advice,min/maxing,role vs. roll DadaDUM! It's here, our initial episode about Min/Maxing. What it is, what it isn't, and the dangers of spelling. - Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! DadaDUM! It's here, our initial episode about Min/Maxing. What it is, what it isn't, and the dangers of spelling. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #8: Setting Suggestions 2 (Setting 002) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-7-setting-suggestions-setting-001-2/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-7-setting-suggestions-setting-001-2/#comments Sun, 09 Mar 2008 13:38:23 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/22 This time the gameologists look at some settings that do not have strong systems and talk about how to play in them.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-7-setting-suggestions-setting-001-2/feed/ 0 This time the gameologists look at some settings that do not have strong systems and talk about how to play in them. - Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! This time the gameologists look at some settings that do not have strong systems and talk about how to play in them. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #7: Setting Suggestions (Setting 001) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-7-setting-suggestions-setting-001/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-7-setting-suggestions-setting-001/#comments Fri, 29 Feb 2008 04:15:38 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/20 Love a particular setting? Listen as the Gameologists will help you decide which system is best suited to fit that setting.

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-7-setting-suggestions-setting-001/feed/ 0 Love a particular setting? Listen as the Gameologists will help you decide which system is best suited to fit that setting. - Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Love a particular setting? Listen as the Gameologists will help you decide which system is best suited to fit that setting. Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #6: Game Vs. the Plot (GM 001) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-6-game-vs-the-plot-gm-001/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-6-game-vs-the-plot-gm-001/#comments Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:14:53 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/19 Sort of like Joe Vs. the Volcano, but less lava.

    How to Motivate your Players

    Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-6-game-vs-the-plot-gm-001/feed/ 2 Sort of like Joe Vs. the Volcano, but less lava. - How to Motivate your Players - Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Sort of like Joe Vs. the Volcano, but less lava. How to Motivate your Players Discuss this episode on our Message Boards in THIS thread! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #5: Game Balance (System 002) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-5/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-5/#comments Sun, 16 Sep 2007 04:39:06 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/17 Game Balance discussed- balance between players, the challenges, and what happens when you take balance too far

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-5/feed/ 1 Game Balance discussed- balance between players, the challenges, and what happens when you take balance too far Game Balance discussed- balance between players, the challenges, and what happens when you take balance too far Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #4: Player on an Island (Hints for Players 001) http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-4-hints-for-players-player-on-an-island/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-4-hints-for-players-player-on-an-island/#comments Sun, 09 Sep 2007 04:33:53 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/16 Gaming Methadone, Player on an Island, Cuddles and BoBo, MinMaxing vs. Powergaming

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-4-hints-for-players-player-on-an-island/feed/ 0 Gaming Methadone, Player on an Island, Cuddles and BoBo, MinMaxing vs. Powergaming Gaming Methadone, Player on an Island, Cuddles and BoBo, MinMaxing vs. Powergaming Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #3: GenCon Recap (Meta 002). Indianapolis feels like vagina http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-3-gencon-recap-meta-002/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-3-gencon-recap-meta-002/#comments Sun, 26 Aug 2007 16:17:08 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/11 The Gameologists discuss their favorite parts of GenCon:

    • Josh- Socialization
    • Zeke- The quality of the games
    • Meg- Boobies

    4th Edition

    • The Announcement (cue dramatic music)
    • The Digital Initiative- pros and cons
    • WotC staff talking to an audience that wasn’t there

    Stoplight Speech

    Great stoplight speeches and/or demos

    Good stoplight speeches

    Bad pitches (but games we bought anyway)

    Bad Pitch, blah game

    Podcasting Party and Track

    Indianapolis

    • Fun Eats: Steak and Shake, the Ram, etc.
    • Good location for convention, bad for living
    • Reek of poop
    • Felt like vagina
    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/sode-3-gencon-recap-meta-002/feed/ 0 The Gameologists discuss their favorite parts of GenCon: - Josh- Socialization Zeke- The quality of the games Meg- Boobies - 4th Edition - The Announcement (cue dramatic music) The Digital Initiative- pros and cons WotC staff talking to an ... The Gameologists discuss their favorite parts of GenCon: Josh- Socialization Zeke- The quality of the games Meg- Boobies 4th Edition The Announcement (cue dramatic music) The Digital Initiative- pros and cons WotC staff talking to an audience that wasn't there Stoplight Speech Great stoplight speeches and/or demos Esoterrorists Nature of the Beast Vapor's Gambit Bone Wars Burning Wheel Good stoplight speeches 44: A Game of Fear Cthulhutech Bad pitches (but games we bought anyway) Herocards Aces and Eights Bad Pitch, blah game Star Wars PocketModel TCG Podcasting Party and Track Don Dehm- great podcasting panel facilitator Fear the Boot = Awesome Daniel Perez = Incredibly nice and helpful Sons of Kryos = Hawt. Indianapolis Fun Eats: Steak and Shake, the Ram, etc. Good location for convention, bad for living Reek of poop Felt like vagina Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #2: The Standard D&D Game/ Media Franchises (System 001) http://brilliantgameologists.com/episode-2-is-up/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/episode-2-is-up/#comments Sun, 12 Aug 2007 05:05:07 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/4 The Standard Dungeons and Dragons Game

    · Action Adventure

    · Task Resolution instead of Conflict Resolution

    · Well Rounded Party, Each Character Having a Niche

    · Emphasizes Position Based Tactical Combat

    · Strategic Resource Management

    · Story and Setting Based Game, Play is Reactive to Game Masters World Narration

    · You Need to Roll the Dice

    · Characters are Inherently Balanced with Each other

    · The game is level based

    Games based on Media Franchises

    · The good, the bad, and the unnecessary

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/episode-2-is-up/feed/ 0 The Standard Dungeons and Dragons Game · Action Adventure · Task Resolution instead of Conflict Resolution · Well Rounded Party, Each Character Having a Niche · Emphasizes Position Based Tactical Combat · S... The Standard Dungeons and Dragons Game · Action Adventure · Task Resolution instead of Conflict Resolution · Well Rounded Party, Each Character Having a Niche · Emphasizes Position Based Tactical Combat · Strategic Resource Management · Story and Setting Based Game, Play is Reactive to Game Masters World Narration · You Need to Roll the Dice · Characters are Inherently Balanced with Each other · The game is level based Games based on Media Franchises · The good, the bad, and the unnecessary Meg, Josh, Zeke yes     Sode #1: Gameology (Meta 001) http://brilliantgameologists.com/episode-1-gameology/ http://brilliantgameologists.com/episode-1-gameology/#comments Sun, 05 Aug 2007 04:18:35 +0000 Meg http://brilliantgameologists.com/blog/7 Welcome to our inaugural episode.

    In our first podcast we lead with our “Manifesto”

    Follow up with a discussion of what a “Tabletop Game” is.

    We give an explanation of what we mean when we say “Gameology.”

    And wrap up with a look at the “Shared Experience”

    Questions for you, the listener:

    What do you like about games? Why specifically do you play games?

    What is a Tabletop Game to You? What is a better or more succinct answer?

    What what do you like about Boardgames? Why are they fun to you?

    What are Roleplaying Games to you? Why do you play them?

    What kind of RPG play do you like? What do you want out of an RPG?

    What are some “Shared Experiences” you have come across?

    To answer any or all of these questions, visit our forums!

    ]]>     http://brilliantgameologists.com/episode-1-gameology/feed/ 1 Meet the Gameologists! Meet the Gameologists! Meg, Josh, Zeke yes